Communication is the construction of meaning. It simply is the process of exchanging information between individuals or groups. Various means such as speaking, writing, or nonverbal gestures achieve this. It is an essential aspect of human interaction, enabling individuals to share ideas, thoughts, and feelings with one another.
There are various types of communication, including verbal, nonverbal, written, and visual. Verbal involves the use of words, spoken or written, to convey a message or idea. Nonverbal, on the other hand, includes facial expressions, body language, and other forms of nonverbal cues. Written is the use of printed words to convey a message. Finally, visual uses images, graphics, and other visual aids to convey information.
Both the sender and the receiver need to actively engage in the process for effective communication. This means that the message needs to be clear and concise. The receiver needs to be attentive, actively listening or reading the message. Miscommunication can occur when there is a misunderstanding between the sender and the receiver, leading to confusion and potential conflict.
With the advent of technology, communication has become more diverse and accessible than ever before. People can now communicate with each other across the globe using various technological devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Social media platforms have also revolutionised exchanges, allowing individuals to share information, ideas, and experiences with a global audience.
Communication is a vital component of human interaction. It is essential to building relationships, sharing ideas, and ensuring that people are understood. Effective communication requires clear and concise messaging, active listening, and engagement from both the sender and the receiver. With the continued advancement of technology, communication continues to evolve and become even more diverse and accessible in the future.
Communication Theory examines how messages shape our world, influencing thoughts, behaviours, and society. It explores the processes of transmitting and receiving information, offering practical insights into society, organisational communication, and digital media. This article aims to simplify these important concepts.
Communication Privacy Management (CPM) Theory, developed by Sandra Petronio, explores how people manage and control their private information. It posits that individuals see their private information as their possession and use rules to decide what to disclose or keep private.
Cultural Context Theory is pivotal for understanding how culture influences media creation, distribution, and reception. It suggests that culture shapes perceptions and behaviours, offering insights into the relationship between media and society. We delve into its concepts, applications, and significance.
Social Comparison Theory, devised by Leon Festinger in 1954, explores how people evaluate themselves by comparing with others, shaping their behaviours from self-esteem to consumer choices. The theory further clarifies the impact of social dynamics on human psychology and behavior.
Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) elucidates how people adapt their speech, accent, and behavior to either align with or differentiate from others during social interactions. CAT further underscores the importance of accommodation in various contexts like interpersonal relationships and intercultural communication.
Dramatism Theory unveils the intricacies of human communication, delving into language’s dramatistic nature and highlighting the use of symbols for meaning. It facilitates navigating social complexities, fostering a deep exploration of core concepts and profound implications in comprehending human interaction.
Stories are integral to communication; they embody cultural wisdom and identities. In Media and Communications, the Narrative Paradigm highlights narratives’ pivotal role in shaping perceptions, connecting communities, and circulating universal values, typified globally by impactful politicians, movies and online platforms.
Communication is a dynamic, multifaceted process where meaning is actively constructed. Coordinated Management of Meaning (CMM) theory is a potent analytical tool in Media and Communications. This article explores CMM’s intricate patterns and processes, revealing its significant and broad application.
Muted Group Theory addresses Media and Communication disparities by highlighting the groups whose voices are suppressed. Originally focused on women, it now envelops various minority voices, detailing how dominant groups shape structures of communication, perpetuating the silencing of “other” voices.
Social Penetration Theory (SPT) is a foundational framework in Media and Communications. It explores the gradual journey from surface to deep communication, offering valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of human connections, emphasising the importance of understanding relationships and interactions.