Essential Communication

An essential part of effective communication involves listening to and learning from one another in a world that's quickly changing. The third edition of Essential Communication excels in its coverage of diversity, social media, and career success. This edition builds upon the engaging design and practical advice that have made the first editions of Essential Communication so popular. It stands out for its commitment to active learning with real-life examples, self-quizzes, reflection opportunities, and communication checklists to help students think critically about the material and put what they learn to good use.

Ronald B. Adler is Professor of Communication, Emeritus, at Santa Barbara City College.

George Rodman is Professor in the Department of Television and Radio at Brooklyn College, City University.

Athena du Pré is Distinguished University Professor of Communication at the University of West Florida.

Chapter 1: The Importance of Communication

Communication Defined
Communication is symbolic.
Communication is a process.
Communication is irreversible.
Communication is relational.

Models of Communication
Linear Model
Transactional Model
Pause to Reflect: How Noisy Is Your Communication?

Communication Contexts
Intrapersonal Communication
Dyadic Communication
Interpersonal Communication
Small Group Communication
Organizational Communication
Public Communication
Mass Communication
Social Media

Communication and Social Media
Social media is entertaining.
Social media is . . . social.
Social media is a means of identity management.
Social media can hijack your time.
Social media is distracting.
Social media can make you feel bad.
Tips & Reminders: 5 Tips for Communicating Well on Social Media

Communication Competence
There is no “ideal” way to communicate.
Competence is situational.
Competence is relational.
Competence can be learned.
Competent communicators are flexible.
Competent communicators are empathic.
Competent communicators self-monitor.
Competent communicators are committed.
About You: What Type of Communicator are You?

Misconceptions About Communication
Myth 1: Communication requires complete understanding.
Myth 2: Communication can solve all problems.
Myth 3: Communication is good.
Myth 4: Meanings are in words.
Myth 5: Communication is simple.
Myth 6: More communication is always better.

Communication Take-Aways: The Importance of Communication
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 2: The Self, Perception, and Communication

The Self-Concept Defined
Self-Concept
Self-Esteem

Communication and the Self-Concept
Significant Others
Mass Media
Culture
Expectations
Pause to Reflect: What Shapes Your Self-Concept?

Mistaken Attributions and Communication
Individuals typically judge themselves more charitably than they judge others.
People often pay more attention to negative impressions than to positive ones.
When individuals do perceive positive qualities, they tend to overgeneralize.
People gravitate to the familiar.

Myths About Gendered Communication
Myth 1: Sex and gender are the same.
Myth 2: Communication styles are either masculine or feminine.
Myth 3: There is an “opposite” sex.
Myth 4: Gender roles are rooted in biology.

Emotional IQ and Communication
Self-Awareness
Self-Regulation
Internal Motivation
Empathy
Social Skills
Tips & Reminders: 3 Steps to Engage in Perception Checking

About You: How Emotionally Intelligent Are You?

Identity Management
Individuals have public and private selves.
People engage in facework to manage identities.
Identity management is collaborative.
People have multiple identities.
Identity management may be deliberate or unconscious.
People differ in their degree of identity management.
Social rules influence identity management.
Identity management can be goal-oriented.
Identity management isn't necessarily dishonest.
Pause to Reflect: Which Identities Do You Enact?

Identity Management and Social Media
Social media can boost self-esteem.
Being genuine matters most.
Self-esteem can enhance emotional resilience.

Communication Take-Aways: Self, Perception, and Communication
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 3: Communication and Culture

Culture Defined
Culture and Coculture
Salience
In-Group and Out-Group

Cultural Values and Norms
Individualism and Collectivism
High and Low Context
Uncertainty Avoidance
Power Distance
Talk and Silence
Pause to Reflect: What Cultural Norms Do You Embrace?
About You: How Much Do You Know About Other Cultures?
Communication and Cocultures
Race and Ethnicity
Regional Differences
Sexual Orientation and Gender
Religion
Disability
Political Viewpoints
Tips & Reminders: 3 Ways to Discuss Politics Responsibly on Social Media

Age and Generation
Ideas about aging change over time.
Stereotypes discourage open communication.
Being young has its challenges.
Generations regard technology differently.
Differences emerge at work.
Tips & Reminders: 4 Ways to Learn More About Other Cultures

Talking about Race
Expect strong emotions.
Put yourself in the other person's shoes.
Don't debate.
Learn and apologize, if appropriate.
Don't force the issue.
Pause to Reflect: How Does Talking About Race Make You Feel?

Overcoming Prejudice
We tend to think our culture is the best.
We often prejudge and stereotype others.
Judgments can lead to unfair treatment.
Mindful thinking can help.

Coping with Culture Shock
Don't be too hard on yourself.
Homesickness is normal.
Expect progress and setbacks.
Reach out to others.

Communication Take-Aways: Communication and Culture
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 4: Language

The Nature of Language
Language is symbolic.
Meanings are in people, not in words.
Words affect and reflect reality.
Language is governed by rules.

The Power of Language
Names
Accents and Dialects
“Powerful” and “Powerless” Speech
Affiliative Language
Pause to Reflect: How Does Language Influence You?

Misunderstandings
Language is equivocal.
Meaning is relative.
Language differs by community.
Language is nuanced.
Tips and Reminders: 6 Ways to Avoid Misunderstandings

Facts, Inferences, and Opinions
Distinguish between fact and opinion.
Don't confuse facts with inferences.
Don't present emotions as facts.
Don't resort to insults.
Tips and Reminders: 3 Ways to Distinguish Between Facts and Opinions

Microaggressive Language
Examine your own assumptions.
Inquire.
Use humor.
Point out the underlying assumption.
Be an ally.
Avoid casting individuals as “spokespersons.”
Choose your battles.
Apologize if you mess up.

Gender and Language

About You: How Do You Use Language?
Communication Take-Aways: Communication and Language
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 5: Listening

The Importance of Listening
Listening makes you a better friend and romantic partner.
Good listeners aren't easily fooled.
People with good listening skills are more likely than others to be hired and promoted.
Asking for and listening to advice makes you look good.
Listening is a leadership skill.
Pause to Reflect: How Can You Improve as a Listener?

Misconceptions About Listening
Myth: Hearing and listening are the same thing.
Myth: People only listen with their ears.
Myth: Listening is a natural process.
Myth: All listeners receive the same message.

The Listening Process
Hearing
Understanding
Remembering
Interpreting
Evaluating
Respo nding

Listening in a Complex World
Message Overload
Psychological Noise
Physical Noise
Cultural Differences
Tips & Reminders: 3 Ways to Limit Social Media Distractions

Hurtful Listening Habits
Pretending to Listen
Tuning In and Out
Acting Defensively
Avoiding the Issue
Ignoring Underlying Issues
Being Self-Centered
Talking Too Much
Tips & Reminders: 6 Tips for Listening Nondefensively

Skills for Different Types of Listening
Relational Listening
Supportive Listening
Task-Oriented Listening
Analytical Listening
Critical Listening
Tips & Reminders: 4 Tips for Listening Mindfully

About You: What Are Your Listening Strengths?
Communication Take-Aways: Listening Effectively
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 6: Nonverbal Communication

The Nature of Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication is impossible to avoid.
Nonverbal behavior is part of identity management.
Nonverbal cues help define relationships.
Nonverbal behavior is ambiguous.
Nonverbal communication is influenced by cultural expectations.
Nonverbal communication is essential.
Pause to Reflect: How Nonverbally Savvy Are You?
Functions of Nonverbal Communication
Complementing
Contradicting
Substituting
Regulating

Dece ption and Nonverbal Cues
What cues indicate that someone is lying?
What if the deceiver is a child?
Are my odds better if I know the person well?
Why is it so hard to detect deception?
When do I have the best chance of catching a lie?

Kinesic Nonverbal Communication
Posture
Fidgeting
Smiling
Eye Contact
Expressions of Emotion
Voice
Touch
About You: How Worldly Are Your Nonverbal Communication Skills?

The Impact of Space, Time, and Place
Space
Time
Territory
Environment
Tips & Reminders: 4 Ways to Interpret Nonverbal Cues More Accurately

Nonverbal Cues and Attractiveness
Attractiveness Advantage
Clothing
Body Art
Overall Effect
Pause to Reflect: What Role Does Appearance Play for You?

Gender and Nonverbal Communication
Gender Differences
Media's Influence
Social Structure
Commonalities
Pause to Reflect: How Do Your Nonverbal Cues Suggest?
Communication Take-Aways: Nonverbal Communication
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 7: Communicating in Interpersonal Relationships

Defining Interpersonal Communication
Relational Messages
Affinity
Immediacy
Respect
Control

Metacommunication
Metac ommunication can bring issues to the surface.
Metacommunication can be risky.
Metacommunication isn't just for problem solving.

Self-Disclosure in Close Relationships
Social Penetration Model
The Johari Window
Pause to Reflect: Do You Self-Disclose Too Much or Too Little?
Tips & Reminders: 8 Questions to Consider Before Self-Disclosing

Interpersonal Communication Online
Online communication helps people stay connected.
Online communication provides for immense diversity.
Online communication can feel nonthreatening.
Online communication can be validating.
Online communication has a pause option . . . sometimes.
Online communication can be distracting.
Online communication can be isolating.
Pause to Reflect: Do You Overuse Social Media?

Relational Spirals
Relational spirals can feel unavoidable.
Spirals can be destructive.
Spirals can be positive.
Tips & Reminders: 6 Ways to Avoid Negative Relational Spirals

About You: What's the Forecast for Your Communication Climate?
Communication Take-Aways: Interpersonal Communication
Putting it All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 8: Communicating with Friends and Family

Friendships and Family Ties
Friendships
Family Relationships
Friends and Family

How People Evaluate Friendship Potential
You have a lot in common.
You balance each other out.
You like and appreciate each other.
You admire each other.
You open up to each other.
You interact frequently.
You find the relationship rewarding.
Tips & Reminders: 3 Reasons You Don't Have to be Perfect to be a Good Friend
Pause to Reflect: What Qualities Matter Most in a Friend?

Friendships Can Build Bridges
Stereotypes fade.
Trust grows.
Understanding blooms.
Tips & Reminders: 3 Strategies for Befriending a Wide Range of People

Types of Friendships
Short-Term Versus Long-Term
Low Disclosure Versus High Disclosure
Doing-Oriented Versus Being-Oriented
Low Obligation Versus High Obligation
Frequent Contact Versus Occasional Contact
Tips & Reminders: 8 Communication Strategies for Being a Good Friend
About You: What Kind of Friendship Do You Have?
Gender and Friendship
Do men and women do friendship differently?
Can heterosexual men and women be just friends?
Are there advantages to other-sex friendships?
How does gender diversity figure into friendship?

Communicating with Friends Online
Many people share more in person, at least at first.
Online communication can be less anxiety provoking.
Online communication transcends time and space.
More online communication isn't always better.

Parenting Relationships
Family Dynamics
Parenting Styles

Sibling Relationships
Supportive
Longing
Competitive
Apathetic
Hostile
Tips & Reminders: 6 Communication Tips for Strengthening Family Ties
Pause to Reflect: How Does Your Family Communicate?

Communication Take-Aways: Communicating With Friends and Family
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 9: Communicating with Romantic Partners

Stages of Romantic Relationships
Initiating
Experimenting
Intensifying
Integrating
Bonding
Differentiating
Circumscribing
Stagnating
Avoiding
Terminating
Tips & Reminders: 7 Ways to Transition from Online to In-Person Dating
Pause to Reflect: Where Does Your Relationship Stand?

Gender and Intimacy
Speaking the Languages of Love
Affirming Words
Quality Time
Gifts
Physical Touch
Acts of Service
About You: What's Your Love Language?

Relational Dialectics
Connection Versus Autonomy
Openness Versus Privacy
Predictability Versus Novelty
Tips & Reminders: 6 Strategies for Managing Dialectical Tensions
Pause to Reflect: What Dialectic Strategies Do You Use?
Deception in Romantic Relationships
Altruistic Lies
Evasions
Self-Serving Lies

How Partners Express Conflict
Nonassertiveness
Indirect Communication
Assertiveness
Passive Aggression
Direct Aggression
Tips & Reminders: 3 Ways to Protect Yourself from an Abusive Partner

Conflict Patterns that Ruin Relationships
Partners criticize each other.
Partners show contempt.
Partners are defensive.
Partners engage in stonewalling.
Pause to Reflect: How Do You Handle Conflict as a Couple?

Applying Win-Win Problem Solving
Identify your problem and unmet needs.
Make a date.
Describe your problem and needs.
Check your partner's understanding.
Solicit your partner's needs.
Check your understanding of your partner's needs.
Negotiate a solution.
Follow up on the solution.

Communication Take-Aways: Communicating with Romantic Partners
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How


Chapter 10: Communicating on the Job Market

Employers Seek Good Communicators
Good communicators work well in teams.
Good communicators enhance customer satisfaction.
Good communicators build public awareness.
Good communicators make good leaders.
Good communicators inspire others.

Networking Strategies to Find a Job
Look for networking prospects.
Engage in online networking.
Seek referrals.
Conduct informational interviews.
Show appreciation.
Tips & Reminders: 5 Strategies to Build a Career-Enhancing Network

Managing Your Online Identity
Showcase your strengths and goals.
Build a professional identity.
Avoid embarrassing posts.
Monitor your online presence.
Engage in damage control.
Beware mistaken identities.
Don't be scared off.
Don't stop when you get hired.
Tips & Reminders: 6 Steps to Follow When Applying for a Job

Preparing for a Job Interview
Do research.
Prepare for likely questions.
Know when and where to go.
Practice reframing anxiety as enthusiasm.
Pause to Reflect: What Do You Have to Offer?
Tips & Reminders: 7 Strategies for Creating a Presentation About Yourself
Pause to Reflect: What Should You Include in a Presentation?

Interviewing and the Law
Know the law.
Prepare in advance.

Interviewing Best Practices
Dress for success.
Bring copies of your résumé and portfolio.
Mind your manners.
Follow the interviewer's lead.
Keep your answers succinct and specific.
Describe relevant challenges, actions, and results.
Ask good questions of your own.
Follow up after the interview.
Tips & Reminders: 8 Ways to Respond to Common Interview Questions

Interviewing by Phone or Video
Present a professional identity.
Practice with technology in advance.
Ensure that you have the right time for the interview.
Ask in advance how long the interview will last.
Look at the camera, not at the screen.
Conduct a dress rehearsal.
Don't panic if technology fails.

Communication Take-Aways: Communicating to Land a Job
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 11: Communicating in the Workplace

Communication Mistakes to Avoid at Work
Making Fun of People
Oversharing
Overlooking Cultural Differences
Gossiping
Doing Less Than Your Best
Losing Your Cool
Fixating on a Mistake
Tips & Reminders: 10 Ways to Get Slackers to Do Their Share

Communication Strategies for Leaders
Characteristics of Effective Leaders
Trait Theories of Leadership
Situational Leadership
Transformational Leadership
Behaviors that Demonstrate Leadership Potential
Figure 11.1: Managerial Grid
Pause to Reflect: What Has Shaped Your Leadership Approach?

About You: What's Your Leadership Style?

Working with a Difficult Boss
Rise to the challenge.
Make up for the boss's shortcomings.
Seek advice from others.
Talk with your boss.
Maintain a professional demeanor.
Adjust your expectations.
If necessary, make a gracious exit.
Tips & Reminders: 5 Steps to Leave a Job Without Burning Bridges

Power in the Workplace
Legitimate Power
Expert Power
Connection Power
Reward Power
Coercive Power
Referent Power

Communication in Small Groups
Groups are defined by goals and relationships.
Group members have different goals.
Groups operate via spoken and unspoken rules.
Group members play different roles.
Groups develop in stages.
Group cohesion boosts commitment.
Tips & Reminders: 6 Strategies for Dealing with Difficult Team Members

Advantages of Group Problem Solving
Groups have more resources than individuals do.
Group members can catch errors.
Group work enhances buy-in.
Groups benefit from diverse ideas.
Groups are best at solving some problems.
Pause to Reflect: How Do You Feel About Group Work?

Making the Most of Group Meetings
Encourage equal participation.
Avoid information underload and overload.
Avoid pressure to conform.
Make the most of diversity.
Tips & Reminders: 9 Ways to Make the Most of Online Meetings

A Structured Problem-Solving Approach
Identify the problem.
Analyze the problem.
Identify criteria for success.
Gather relevant information.
Identify supporting and restraining forces.
Develop creative solutions.
Select an option.
Implement the plan.
Follow up on the solution.
Tips & Reminders: 4 Ways to Reach a Group Decision

Communication Take-Aways: Communicating in the Workplace
Putting It All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How


Chapter 12: Preparing Speeches

Analyzing Your Audience
Demographics and Political Affiliation
Attitudes, Beliefs, and Values
Audience Perception of the Occasion
Pause to Reflect: Where Do You Stand?

Planning Your Speech
Step 1: Choose a topic.
Step 2: Define your purpose.
Step 3: Write a purpose statement.
Step 4: State your thesis.
Step 5: Gather information.
Step 6: Double-check your sources.
Tips & Reminders: 3 Ways to Evaluate Online Information

Structuring Your Speech
Outlines
Speaking Notes
Organizational Patterns

Creating the Introduction
Capture attention.
Preview the main points.
Set the tone of your speech.
Demonstrate the importance of your topic to your audience.
Establish credibility.
Tips & Reminders: 9 Ways to Capture the Audience's Attention

Designing Conclusions and Transitions
The Conclusion
Transitions
Pause to Reflect: How Did You Come to That Conclusion

Types of Supporting Material
Definitions
Examples
Statistics
Analogies/Comparison-Contrast
A necdotes
Quotations/Testimony
Styles of Support
Pause to Reflect: What Kind of Gatherer Are You?

Communication Take-Aways: Preparing Speeches
Putting it All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 13: Presenting Speeches

Managing Speech Anxiety
Facilitative and Debilitative Anxiety
Past Negative Experiences and Irrational Thinking
Tips & Reminders: 4 Types of Irrational Fears About Public Speaking
Pause to Reflect: Are You Thinking Rationally?
About You: Do You Suffer from Speech Anxiety?
Tips & Reminders: 4 Steps to Practicing a Speech

Choosing a Type of Delivery
Manuscript
Memorized
Impromptu
Extemporaneous

Selecting Visual Aids
Objects and Models
Diagrams
Word and Number Charts

Using Visual Aids
Presentation Software
Audio and Video Clips
Whiteboards and Chalkboards
Flip Pads and Poster Boards
Handouts
Tips & Reminders: 5 Rules for Using Visual Aids Effectively

Visual Aspects of Delivery
Appearance
Movement
Posture
Facial Expression
Eye Contact

Auditory Aspects of Delivery
Volume
Rate
Pitch
Articulation
Tips & Reminders: 4 Ways to Improve Your Articulation
Pause to Reflect: How Is Your Articulation?

Virtual Delivery
Tips & Reminders: 6 Tips for Online/Virtual Delivery of Speeches

Communication Take-Aways: Presenting Speeches
Putting it All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How

Chapter 14: Speaking to Inform and Persuade

Informing Versus Persuading
Informative Speeches
Persuasive Speeches
Overlap Between Informative and Persuasive Speeches
Pause to Reflect: Informative and Persuasive Speaking

Techniques of Informative Speaking
Define a specific informative purpose.
Use clear, simple language.
Emphasize important points.
Generate audience involvement.
Tips & Reminders: 3 Ways to Make It Easy for the Audience to Listen
Tips & Reminders: 4 Ways to Handle a Question-and-Answer Period

Techniques of Persuasive Speaking
Set a specific persuasive purpose.
Adapt to your specific audience.
Establish common ground and credibility.
Draw upon Aristotle's Triad.
Tips & Reminders: 3 Types of Persuasive Appeals

Logic, Ethics, and the Art of Persuasion
Step 1: Structure your basic argument.
Step 2: Describe the problem.
Step 3: Describe the solution.
Step 4: Describe the desired audience response.
Sample Outline using Monroe's Motivated Sequence.

Structuring Reasoning Within Your Argument
Claims and Subclaims
Evidence
The Toulmin Model
Tips & Reminders: 6 Fallacies and How to Avoid Them

About You: Can You Identify Common Fallacies?

Communication Take-Aways: Speaking to Inform and Persuade
Putting it All Together: Show Your Communication Know-How