Interpersonal/Small Group Communication

Every person needs to communicate with other people, but the barriers and subtleties of our interpersonal communications often go undetected. In this section of our blog, we look at the latest interpersonal communication studies and critical theories to develop a better understanding of how people communicate face-to-face and through new technologies like social networking websites and text messaging systems. We will also take a look at small group interactions to learn how our interpersonal skills change and adapt to different situations. By understanding our interpersonal skills, our group communicative skills and how these skills can develop in response to new technologies, we can look for ways to positively treat interpersonal disorders and how to change our interactions with other individuals.

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The History of Dating and Communication

November 1, 2011 Elaine Hirsch 0

In the internet-connected world of the 21st century, the courtship rituals of yore have been largely replaced by online dating, social networking, and “hooking up.” Lovers have always relied upon the latest advances in communications technology to facilitate their budding relationships. The perfumed, handwritten letter delivered by personal courier was replaced by the more efficient postal service.

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Men See Discussion of Problems as ‘A Waste of Time,’ Says Study

October 24, 2011 coms 0

Since time immemorial, psychologists—and women—have assumed that men avoid talking about problems due to feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable with their emotions, or because of a society that degrades men for appearing “weak.” However, a new study from researchers at the University of Missouri reveals that men simply view discussing problems as a waste of their time.

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The Role of Nonverbal Communication in Virtual Environments and Real Life Scenarios [Study]

October 14, 2011 coms 0

Modern technology has made great strides in personal communication, but some of the body gestures that are so critical to full understanding are lost in virtual translation. In a typical face-to-face communication, speakers and listeners both engage in certain body gestures that convey meaning and intent, but many technological advances in virtual communication have failed to account for this. According to research published in the PLoS ONE online journal, this limitation severely dampens the ability to communicate virtually.

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Social Network Analysis and the Dynamics of Web-Based Networking [Study]

September 26, 2011 coms 0

According to social networking researchers, the old saying “birds of a feather flock together” applies even in the vast realm of cyberspace. This is the topic of the recently published research findings of Dr. Cuihua Shen, an assistant professor at University of Texas Dallas. Her findings have been reported in a recent issue of the First Monday publication. Shen examined the community dynamics of users from SourceForge, a massive internet open source community. Shen conducted social network analyses on these users to determine the social motivations within the communities and the shaping of collaborations within these communities.

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Sexual Orientation and Race Affect Likability [Study]

September 13, 2011 coms 0

Psychological researchers at the University of Toronto have recently conducted a study about the effects of sexual orientation on impressions. The results of the study indicate that homosexual men may experience differences in likability based on race. Specifically, white heterosexual men are deemed to be more likable, but gay black men seem to have more likability.

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Social Connections in the Workplace Do Not Benefit Women [Study]

September 12, 2011 coms 0

Who you know might carry more weight in your hiring than your actual work knowledge and experience. Work experience in the field should result in meeting helpful social contacts, and these individuals might eventually give a helping hand in entering the workforce. Unfortunately for women, a North Carolina State University study found that women do not receive the benefits of work contacts made through experience. For one reason or another, only men enjoy the benefits of social connections.

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Improve Your Speaking by Listening – To Yourself!

July 26, 2011 fmiller 0

As speakers, we know we can always improve. Videoing ourselves is a great tool to use to view, review, and improve. However, it focuses on everything. Rather than trying to better both our content and delivery, it often helps to target specific parts of our presentation. The delivery component has two parts: verbal and nonverbal. This post addresses one specific part – verbal delivery.

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Why Speak?

July 14, 2011 fmiller 0

Many people looked at the title of this post and said to themselves, “Exactly my thoughts! Why speak? Like most folks, I have a fear of public speaking. That’s the reason: “Why am I even reading this article?” That’s a fair question. Let me answer it.