Читать книгу The Interpersonal Communication Playbook - Teri Kwal Gamble - Страница 33

We use interpersonal communication to influence others—sometimes subtly and sometimes overtly. As we exercise influence, our need to gain agreement is met. Interpersonal communicators are both the users of and targets of persuasion.

As we observed earlier in this chapter, interpersonal communication is often goal directed, methodically planning how to get what we want. We seek contact with and advice from others whom we believe can help us. This is not to say that human beings are naturally manipulative or deceptive, as neither of these practices supports the interdependent and transactional nature of interpersonal communication.¹¹ Communication is not something we do to others or have done to us. It is a mutually reinforcing activity we engage in together. We are both affected by what each of us does and says.

Try This: Functions in Action

Consider three conversations: one you recently had with a significant other, one between you and a friend, and one between you and an acquaintance or co-worker you usually don’t see outside of work. Explain which interpersonal communication function(s) each interaction fulfilled: psychological, social, information, and/or influence. Be specific in describing and assessing how each interaction illustrates the function(s) you identify.