Understanding Types of Conversations

Conversation Diagram Overview

• Left-hand side: Cooperative
• Right-hand side: Competitive
• Top: Two-way (back and forth communication)
  • More than two participants possible
• Bottom: One-way (one person communicates)
  • Use of language or nonverbals

Types of Conversations

Dialogue

• Nature: Cooperative and Two-way
• Characteristics:
  • Exchange of information
  • Building relationships
  • Co-creation of reality with communication partners

Debate

• Nature: Competitive and Two-way
• Characteristics:
  • Argumentation or persuasion
  • Showcasing one's perspective as superior
  • Making decisions or problem-solving
  • Example: Deciding what to eat in personal life

Discourse

• Nature: Cooperative and One-way
• Characteristics:
  • Sender transmits information
  • Receiver plays the role of a listener
  • Cooperative listening, especially in important relationships

Diatribe

• Nature: Competitive and One-way
• Characteristics:
  • Expressing emotions forcefully
  • Browbeating or inspiring like-minded individuals
  • Speaking mostly to oneself
  • Not open to hearing other perspectives
  • Focus on persuasion rather than dialogue