Interpersonal Communication
This is the definition of Interpersonal Communication (itself).
What is (something like) a distinctive form of communication involving one-or-more persons, usually for the purpose of mutual influence.
OR
The type of communication where two people engage in a conversation, focusing on building and maintaining relationships, rather than simply exchanging information.
Cognitive biases like confirmation bias and proportionality, as well as belonging to an exclusive group that Fosters identity create the sum of what two main (studied) reasons as to why people believe in conspiracy theories.
What are psychological factors and social factors.
What is mediated communication, and how does it differ from face-to-face communication?
Unlike face-to-face interactions, this form of communication allows people to connect across time and space through devices like smartphones, computers, and social media.
How can conspiracy theories about ads or logos spill into everyday conversations?
(Open-ended question, all answers considered)
By affecting trust and perception of companies and governments, studies and people, all through casual social talk.
What is the format of quiz questions?
Multiple choice, True/False, possibly some fill in the blank.
What are four principals of communication (mentioned in chapter 1 readings), also covered in lecture, that serve as a foundational understanding for our course?
1. Communication is transactional (one cannot not communicate).
2. Communication can be intentional (j/k is rarely a joke).
3. Communication is irreversible (what is communicated can never be uncommunicated or taken back).
4. Communication has a content dimension and a relational dimension.
Example: "Can you pass the salt" is a simple request for salt. (content)
Add tone of voice, emotion in the tone, and power dynamics of the relationship to this request and relational dimensions emerge.
What we say conveys information. How we say it signals the nature of our relationship.
Finish the sentence: Mediated communication involves messages like:
What are text based messaging apps, video calls, social media, gaming, online forums, and email.
What is the lack of nonverbal cues in mediated communication, and how can it lead to misunderstandings?
Answer, applied with an example:
A social media argument quickly escalates because users misinterpret each other’s tone and emotional intent, leading to increased hostility.
What does the Transactional Model of Communication offer that the Linear Model does not?
It includes Feedback Loops and Two-way Communication, while the Linear Model does not.
What chapters should I study?
Chapters 1 - 3 + lecture
True or False (and why):
All communication seeks understanding;
More communication is better than less communication;
Communication can solve any problem;
Effective communication is a natural ability.
What is: False.
All communication seeks understanding: not all communication is meant to clarify or inform. Some communication is ritualistic (greetings) or even strategic (negotiating a raise). Some communication is ambiguous (sarcasm, deception).
More communication is better than less communication: Quality matters more than quantity. Over-communicating can lead to confusion, frustration, or information overload. In conflicts, excessive communication without resolution can make things worse. Sometimes, silence or a pause is more effective.
Communication can solve any problem: Some problems go beyond communication—like deep-rooted values, personal beliefs, or external constraints. Even great communication can’t fix irreconcilable differences or structural inequalities on its own. Being other-oriented can work with bridging gaps problems create.
Effective communication is a natural ability: Some people have a natural appreciation for communication, effective communication is a learned skill in active listening, self-awareness, adaptability, and practice. We aren't born natural communicators.
Anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption along with reduced in-person interactions and physical activity are the N _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ A _ _ _ (two-words) of mediated communication.
What are Negative Impacts
How does transactional communication emphasize that meaning is co-created between communicators rather than just sent and received?
Answer, applied via an example:
Two neighbors are talking over their fence about their gardens. While one speaks, the other nods, smiles, and responds with follow-up questions, **showing that communication is continuous and shaped by both participants.**
What is a mediated parasocial relationship, and how do media figures create a sense of intimacy with audiences?
Online influencers often create a sense of closeness with their followers by using direct eye contact in videos, personal storytelling, and responding to comments, even though the relationship is one-sided.
How should I study for this quiz?
a) Understand the definitions of the key concepts we've covered in both the readings and lectures.
b) Practice applying these concepts to real-world examples, just like we’ve done in class and in the readings.
c) Review your lecture and reading notes—don’t second-guess yourself! Trust your understanding.
d) Relate the concepts to examples from your own life, or from films, TV shows, and novels, to see how they work in various contexts.
Don't cram-study. Working in the humanities is about understanding and applying ideas, not just memorizing facts.
Breathe, review, and refresh.
Martin Buber's concept of impersonal vs interpersonal focuses on how we treat others and is called:
What is I-It / I-Thou.
I-It: Treating people as objects, roles, or means to an end (ie: a cashier as just a cashier rather than a person).
I-Thou: Engaging with others as unique individuals with value and dignity, fostering genuine connection.
Provide a definition and example of a parasocial (not hyperpersonal) relationship.
Definition: A parasocial relationship is a one-sided relationship that occurs when an individual feels a personal connection with a media figure, such as a celebrity, influencer, or fictional character, despite no real-life interaction.
Example: A fan who watches a talk show host every day might feel like they “know” them personally, even though the host has no awareness of their existence.
There is a large difference between a parasocial relationship fan and a parasocial relationship that crosses into obsession (such as in some portions of Netflix's Baby Reindeer).
How does transactional communication acknowledge that meaning is subjective, depending on a person’s culture, background, and experiences?
Two friends from different backgrounds (cultural, familial, etc.) interpret the same message differently because of past experiences, personal values, and social norms.
This refers to the ongoing nature of communication, emphasizing that it’s simultaneous and dynamic, with both participants influencing the interaction.
What is transactional communication.
How many questions and what is point value for questions?
Roughly 40 questions with bonus questions added in.
Each question will be worth between 0.5 points and 1.0 points (including bonus questions).
How does cognitive complexity contribute to a communicator's ability to adapt in interpersonal interactions
Cognitive complexity allows communicators to recognize and interpret multiple perspectives, which in turn helps them adapt their communication strategies in real-time. Here's how it plays out:
1. Flexibility in Message Construction – Individuals with high cognitive complexity can tailor their messages to suit different situations or audiences, understanding that one-size-fits-all doesn’t work in dynamic interactions.
2. Perspective-Taking – The ability to view situations from others' viewpoints helps communicators adjust their tone, content, and approach based on the emotional state or needs of others.
3. Problem-Solving – People with cognitive complexity are better equipped to resolve misunderstandings or conflicts because they can identify a range of potential causes or solutions, instead of jumping to conclusions or relying on a single interpretation.
4. Nonverbal Awareness – With cognitive complexity, individuals can notice and respond to subtle nonverbal cues allowing a better match with verbal and nonverbal communication to the context.
Provide a definition and example of a hyperpersonal (not parasocial) relationship.
A hyperpersonal relationship develops when people communicate primarily through computer-mediated channels (like texting, messaging apps, or online platforms), and the lack of face-to-face cues allows them to present themselves in selective, idealized ways. This often makes the relationship feel more intimate, intense, or accelerated than it might if it had started in person.
Example: Two classmates who rarely speak in person but message constantly on Discord. Online, they carefully choose their words, use emojis, and feel more comfortable sharing personal details. As a result, their digital bond feels deeper and closer than their offline interactions.
Question: Explain the differences between interpersonal and impersonal communication as related to this paragraph.
The transactional model suggests that communicators create meaning through their interactions with one another. Perhaps the most important consequence of the communications transactional nature is mutual influence. To put it simply, communication isn't something we do to others; rather it is an activity we do with them.
Question: Explain the differences between interpersonal and impersonal communication as related to this paragraph.
Interpersonal is when you’re actually connecting with someone and it feels personal (like having a real conversation where you both matter.)
Impersonal is more like small talk or just exchanging info, such as ordering food or saying a routine ‘thanks’ to the bus driver without ever obtaining their name and sharing yours.
Interpersonal feels like you’re building something together, impersonal doesn’t.
This type of communication occurs when an individual’s message is transmitted through technology but doesn’t allow for immediate interaction or response.
What is asynchronous communication.
Example: pre-recorded podcasts, music played over technology, fully online classes, talk-show television programs, news broadcasts, a hybrid class, and more.
Final Jeopardy Question:
What are the steps in the Transactional Model of Communication, and what role does each step play in the communication process?
Sender/Receiver
The person who sends and receives messages. In this model, everyone is both a sender and a receiver at the same time, actively engaging in encoding (sending) and decoding (receiving) messages.
Message
The actual content being communicated—what’s being conveyed from one person to another, through words, gestures, or other symbols.
Channel
The medium or method used to send the message, such as face-to-face conversation, text messages, or emails. It affects how the message is received and understood.
Receiver/Sender
The person who receives and interprets the message. The receiver also provides feedback to the sender, influencing the ongoing flow of communication.
Noise
Any type of interference that disrupts or distorts the message. Noise can be physical (like background sound), psychological (like stress or distraction), or semantic (like misunderstandings of language).
Feedback
The response from the receiver back to the sender, which shows whether the message was understood as intended. Feedback can be immediate or delayed and is crucial for clarity in communication.
Context
The environment and circumstances in which the communication takes place. Context includes factors like cultural influences, the relationship between communicators, and situational aspects that affect the message’s meaning.