Interpersonal Communication

Models of Communication: Linear

• Linear Model of Communication:

• Uncomplicated, direct way to comprehend how two different parties communicate with
one another; single-directional

• A sender passes along a message without any feedback or response from the receiver.

• E.g., radio broadcasting involves a sender sending message to a large group of receivers,
such as music or new programs

• Communication does not include dialogue between the parties and is usually for
entertainment or information purposes.
• Linear Model:

• Sender: The sender is the initiator of the communication process. They encode their
thoughts or messages into a form that can be transmitted to the receiver. This could be
verbal (speech) or non-verbal (gestures, facial expressions).

• Message: The message is the information or content being communicated by the sender.
It could be an idea, opinion, request, or any other form of expression.

• Channel: The channel refers to the medium through which the message is transmitted
from the sender to the receiver. This could be face-to-face conversation, written text,
phone call, email, etc.
• Receiver: The receiver is the intended recipient of the message. They decode the message
to extract meaning from it. However, in the linear model, there is minimal emphasis on
feedback from the receiver.

• Noise: Noise refers to any interference or barriers that disrupt the communication process.
This could include physical distractions, language barriers, emotional factors, or even
differences in interpretation.

• Disadvantage: The linear model does not account for the complexities of human
interaction, such as feedback and context.
One example of Linear Model: Shannon-Weaver Model

• Shannon and Weaver were both engineers for the Bell Telephone Labs.

• Their job was to make sure that all the telephone cables and radio waves were operating at
full capacity.

• They developed the Shannon-Weaver model which is also known as the

linear communication model (Weaver & Shannon, 1963).

• The scholars believed that communication occurred in a linear fashion, where a sender
encodes a message through a channel to a receiver who will decode the message.

• Feedback is not immediate. Examples of linear communication were newspapers, radio,

and television.
Model of Communication: Interaction

• Interaction Model:
• Views the sender and the receiver as responsible for the effectiveness of
the communication.

• One of the biggest differences between the action and interaction models is a heightened
focus on feedback.

• The model recognizes that communication is a two-way process involving both the
sender and the receiver actively participating in the exchange of messages.
• Sender:
• Message:
• Channel: The medium through which the message is transmitted.
• Receiver: The receiver receives the message and provides feedback to the sender.
• Feedback: Feedback can take various forms, such as verbal responses, non-verbal cues,
or even silence.
• One example of interaction model: Osgood and Schramm Model:
• Osgood-Schramm’s model of communication is known as circular model.

• It indicates that messages can go in two directions.

• This model indicates that: 1) communication is not linear, but circular; 2) communication is reciprocal and
equal; 3) messages are based on interpretation; 4) communication involves encoding, decoding,
and interpreting.

The benefit of this model is that

the model illustrates that feedback is
cyclical.
It also shows that communication is
complex because it accounts for
interpretation.
This model also showcases the fact that we
are active communicators, and we are
active in interpreting the messages that
we receive.
Model of Communication: Transactional

• The transactional models differ from the interactional models in that the transactional
models demonstrate that individuals are often acting as both the sender and receiver
simultaneously. Basically, sending and receiving messages happen simultaneously.
• Barnlund’s Transactional Model of Communication
• In 1970, Dean C. Barnlund created the transactional model of communication to understand
basic interpersonal communication
• Barnlund argues that during interpersonal interactions, we are both sending and receiving messages
simultaneously.
• Out of all the other communication models, this model includes a multi-layered feedback system.
• We can provide oral feedback but our nonverbal communication (e.g., tone of voice, eye contact,
facial expressions, gestures) is equally important to how others interpret the messages we are sending
we use others’ nonverbal behaviors to interpret their messages.
• In any interpersonal interaction, a ton of messages are sent and received simultaneously between the
two people.
• Transactional Model:
• The transactional model is the most comprehensive and dynamic of the three models. It views
communication as an ongoing, simultaneous exchange of messages between sender and
receiver, where both parties are active participants.

• Sender-Receiver: Unlike the linear and interaction models, the transactional model does not
distinguish between sender and receiver roles. Instead, it recognizes that both parties are
simultaneously sending and receiving messages.

• Message: Messages are exchanged between participants, with each message influencing and
being influenced by previous messages. Meanings are co-created through this continuous
exchange.

• Feedback: Feedback is an integral part of the transactional model, occurring continuously

throughout the communication process.
• Context: Context plays a significant role in the transactional model, shaping the
interpretation and meaning of messages. It includes not only the physical environment but
also cultural, social, and relational factors.

• Noise: Noise, or interference, can still disrupt the communication process in the
transactional model. However, it is understood as a natural part of communication rather
than a simple barrier to be overcome.

• The transactional model emphasizes the dynamic and interactive nature of

communication, highlighting the ongoing exchange of messages and the co-creation of
meaning between participants. It provides a more holistic understanding of interpersonal
communication compared to the linear and interaction models.
• Transactional Principles:
• Communication is complex: lot of factors, such as power language and relationship
differences, that can impact the conversation; interpretation will be different.
• Communication is continuous: communication never stops, encoding, decoding message
goes back and forth.
• Communication is dynamic: with the evolving technology communication is constantly
changing.
Interpersonal Communication Patterns: Complementary

• Complementary interpersonal communication patterns refer to a type of interaction where

individuals engage in behaviors that complement or match each other's communication style,
creating a harmonious and balanced exchange.

• In complementary communication, one person typically takes on a dominant or assertive role,

while the other assumes a submissive or accommodating role.

• This dynamic often results in a smooth flow of conversation, with each person fulfilling
complementary roles that contribute to effective communication and mutual understanding.

• For example, in a work setting, a manager might take on a more assertive role by providing
guidance and direction, while an employee adopts a more submissive role by following
instructions and seeking clarification when needed. This complementary pattern allows for
clear communication and effective task execution within the organization.
• Complementary communication patterns can vary depending on cultural norms, social
dynamics, and individual personalities.

• While they can contribute to efficient communication and cooperation, they may
also reinforce power imbalances or inhibit assertiveness in certain situations.

• It's important for individuals to be aware of these dynamics and strive for balanced
communication styles that promote mutual respect and understanding.
 Interpersonal Communication Patterns: Symmetrical

• Symmetrical interpersonal communication patterns involve individuals engaging in behaviors that

mirror or match each other's communication style, creating a sense of similarity and equality in the
interaction.

• In symmetrical communication, both parties exhibit similar levels of assertiveness, dominance, or

submission, leading to a balanced exchange where neither person holds a clear advantage in the
conversation.

• For example, in a friendship where both individuals are equally outgoing and expressive, they may
engage in lively and reciprocal conversations, with each person contributing their thoughts,
opinions, and stories in an equal manner. This symmetrical pattern fosters a sense of equality and
mutual respect, as both parties feel comfortable expressing themselves and participating actively in
the interaction.
• Symmetrical communication patterns can also be observed in conflict situations, where
both individuals adopt similarly aggressive or passive-aggressive behaviors, leading to
escalating tensions and power struggles. In such cases, achieving resolution may require
one or both parties to shift towards more constructive and cooperative communication
styles.

• Symmetrical communication patterns can promote cooperation, reciprocity, and mutual

understanding when balanced effectively. However, it's important for individuals to be
mindful of power dynamics and strive for respectful and empathetic communication that
allows for genuine dialogue and connection.
Interpersonal Communication Patterns: Parallel

• Parallel interpersonal communication patterns involve individuals engaging in behaviors

that neither complement nor mirror each other's communication style. Instead, they
maintain their own distinct communication approaches, resulting in a parallel exchange
where there's minimal interaction or mutual influence between the parties.

• In parallel communication, individuals may communicate side by side without directly

engaging with each other's messages or adjusting their behavior in response to the other
person. This pattern can occur in various contexts, such as casual encounters with
strangers, brief interactions in public settings, or situations where individuals prefer to
maintain their privacy or independence.
• For example, in a crowded elevator, passengers may stand silently without initiating
conversation or making eye contact, focusing on their own thoughts or activities rather
than interacting with others. Similarly, in a group setting where individuals have different
interests or agendas, parallel communication may involve people pursuing their own
activities or conversations without actively engaging with each other.

• Parallel communication patterns can be neutral or even comfortable for individuals who
value autonomy and independence in their interactions.

• However, they can also indicate a lack of connection or engagement, particularly in

relationships where mutual understanding and collaboration are important. In such cases,
fostering more interactive and responsive communication styles may be beneficial for
building stronger connections and resolving misunderstandings.
Interpersonal Communication Types: Self and other oriented

• Interpersonal communication can be broadly categorized into two main types: self-
oriented communication and other-oriented communication.

• 1. Self-Oriented Communication: Self-oriented communication focuses primarily on

expressing one's own thoughts, feelings, needs, and experiences.

• Individuals tend to prioritize their own perspectives and interests without placing
significant emphasis on understanding or responding to the other person's viewpoint.

• Self-oriented communication may involve sharing personal stories, expressing opinions,

seeking validation, or asserting one's needs and desires.
• 2. Other-Oriented Communication: Other-oriented communication, on the other hand,
emphasizes understanding, empathizing with, and responding to the perspectives,
feelings, and needs of the other person in the interaction.

• Instead of solely focusing on oneself, individuals engaged in other-oriented

communication actively listen, show empathy, ask questions, and validate the other
person's experiences.

• This type of communication involves being attentive to verbal and nonverbal cues,
considering the other person's emotions and perspectives, and responding in ways that
demonstrate respect and understanding.

• While self-oriented communication allows individuals to express themselves authentically

and assert their needs, other-oriented communication fosters empathy, connection, and
mutual understanding in relationships. Striking a balance between self-expression and
responsiveness to others' needs is key to building healthy and meaningful relationships.
• Steps to improve interpersonal communication