Lecture Notes: Interpersonal Communication

Introduction

• Interpersonal communication is a key area in communication studies.
• Often considered "the stuff of life" due to its focus on individual and group interactions.

Key Areas of Interpersonal Communication

• Friendships
  • Traditionally face-to-face, now includes digital communication.
  • Scholars study dynamics and impacts of friendships.
• Romantic Relationships
  • Includes dating and marriage.
  • Focus on both face-to-face and digital interactions.
• Family Communication
  • Large body of research dedicated to family dynamics.

Importance Beyond Personal Life

• Career Relevance
  • Interpersonal communication skills are integral in careers.
  • Reflects on whether career is an end goal or part of human experience.
• Loneliness Epidemic
  • Current scholarship reflects on societal issues like loneliness.
  • Interpersonal communication can address these personal needs.

Workplace Communication

• Interpersonal communication is crucial in professional settings.
  • Non-Profit Experience: Interpersonal relationships drive success.
  • Effective communication builds trust and rapport.
  • Lack of interpersonal skills can derail plans despite having good strategies and resources.

Skills Employers Value

• Employers prioritize communication skills in teams and groups.
• Interpersonal communication fosters better team dynamics.

Non-Traditional Perspectives

• Interpersonal communication intersects with broader issues like racial bias.
• Communication scholars aim to address and impact these issues.

Conclusion

• Encourage engagement with readings and open communication for questions.