Examining Human Communication:
While many before me – as will many after – have attempted to define what is human communication, as well as how it functions, - and while there can absolutely never be any one exactly correct answer to this problem – I will discourse on my theory of human communication, as well as the effect of practice on said topic here to follow. Human communication is best understood by examining both its theoretical and practical aspects. Without either, human communication is incomplete.
How Does Human Communication work?
Theoretical Aspects:
When considering human communication theoretically, two components are immediately obvious: individual and group communications. Not to dismiss other important components of communication, but many of the others fit well into the practical side of human communication.
Individual communication – communication between only two people - is the most basic example/form of communication. It can be separated into three component parts: send/receive, response/no response, and verbal/non-verbal. First, during the process of communication there is always one sender and one receiver, but these roles are switched back-and-forth constantly.
Second, the receiver becomes the sender when deploying a response. Interestingly, there is always a response. Even the lack of a response is a form of signal sending - though it might be considered a derivative or a typical signal.
Third, verbal/non-verbal is the last component of individual communication. While verbal communication is certainly important, my colleague emphasizes the importance of non-verbal communication: “ Body language is an essential part of communication. Two people could say the same sentence, but convey different meanings by simply changing their body language.” K. McCurdy (personal communication, October 2007).
Next, group communication is in some ways a “complexification” of individual communication. The components of individual communication still apply, but must be adapted to address more than one person at a time. Additionally, while occasionally one person can respond for the entire group, other times each individual member must contribute his response. Contrarily, in some ways group communication is quite different from that of individual. For example, individual communication is always necessary and, thus, “good” when accomplished. However, groups can sometimes function with less than adequate communication, depending on the strength and determination of individual members. While groups at times can be difficult, Littlejohn adds: “They [groups] create constraints on what we can do, but they can also shape future directions that open opportunities in our lives” (2004). Thus, making group communication successful can work to our benefit.
Practical Aspects:
While theoretical aspects of human communication are directed toward ideas, practical aspects are directed at application and effects. Accordingly, three noticeable components of practical aspects of communication are relationships, cultures, and effort.
Relationships with/to those with whom we communicate directly affect how and what we communicate to someone. Relationship factors make communication (as a goal) easier or more difficult to achieve depending on that specific relationship in a given context. For example, it is quite difficult to discuss a romantic relationship when you and your spouse are having troubles, but it is easier to communicate that same frustration to a trusted confidant.
Next, cultural factors/differences further complicate the already difficult process of human communication. People very often have difficulty viewing concepts from multiple perspectives, which, according to my colleague, is essential: “In order to obtain effective communication, an alteration in perspective must take place” K. Coburn (personal communication, October 2007). One major problem when experiencing cultural differences is that we don’t take the time to listen to each other. Tom Peters argues we must: “Crate an environment where listening is cherished – and opportunities for structured and unstructured listening are rife” (1987). The opportunities are there. We, simply, must choose to take advantage of them.
Third, effort, or the lack thereof, is the most crucial and often most neglected – component of practical human communication. Most people would rather not communicate at all than discuss topics that are frustrating or uncomfortable to them. Tom Peters argues we must “support fast failures” (1987). Thus, even if we do not reach the outcome we would prefer, we should still attempt to communicate effectively. Also, most would rather not communicate than truly listen to others from different backgrounds, who might have different opinions/outlooks. This is disappointing, as Gillette says, “Beware decisions that take the path of least resistance” (J. Gillette [personal communication, October 23, 2007]).
How Do We Improve the Effectiveness of Human Communication?
Thus, both the theoretical and practical aspects of human communication are essential to understanding such a complicated concept. Considering practical communication, most communication problems arise from a lack of effort. George Brutchen states, “ A well written introduction pulls in you into the discussion.” (personal communication, October 9, 2007). Accordingly, even verbal communication might benefit from forethought on the parts of all parties involved. Additionally, again we must be willing to consider issues from multiple perspectives and then carefully consider the best course of action. Effort, or the lack thereof, is our biggest problem.