Communication Theories and its Functions

Summary

This video delves into key communication theories and their practical applications. It explores concepts like symbolic interaction, uncertainty reduction, organizational culture, and face negotiation theory, offering insights into how people interact and understand each other in various contexts. The video also highlights the importance of communication functions, encapsulated in the acronym 'PURPOSE,' which includes elements such as participation, understanding, and empathy. Each theory and function is presented with a focus on how communication shapes human behavior and organizational dynamics, providing viewers with a comprehensive view of the role communication plays in everyday life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Communication theories help explain how and why events occur in different communicative settings.
• 😀 A theory is an abstract system of concepts that shows the relationships among these concepts to better understand a phenomenon.
• 😀 The Symbolic Interaction Theory explores the relationship between self and society, focusing on the significance of meanings in human psychology.
• 😀 Uncertainty Reduction Theory highlights how communication reduces uncertainty in interpersonal interactions, especially among strangers.
• 😀 Organizational Culture Theory explains how shared values and culture shape an organization's reality and behavior.
• 😀 Uses and Gratification Theory examines how individuals' needs for gratification influence their media use and its effects.
• 😀 Cultural Studies theory believes that culture influences all aspects of human behavior and examines how media reflects power dynamics.
• 😀 Face Negotiation Theory focuses on how self-image and culture influence conflict in interpersonal interactions, emphasizing the need to manage these factors.
• 😀 Communication serves several purposes, including explaining why conversations are initiated and the context that influences them.
• 😀 The functions of communication are summarized by the acronym PURPOSE, representing key aspects such as understanding, reaction, participation, opinions, sympathy, and education.

Q & A

What is the definition of a communication theory according to West and Turner?

According to West and Turner, a communication theory is an abstract system of concepts that outlines the relationships among these concepts, helping to explain a phenomenon in communication.

What does the symbolic interaction theory focus on?

The symbolic interaction theory focuses on the relationship between the self and society, emphasizing the significance of meanings for human psychology and interactions. It explores how self-concept is developed and how individuals interact with their society.

What does uncertainty reduction theory suggest about interpersonal interactions?

Uncertainty reduction theory suggests that when strangers interact in interpersonal settings, uncertainties arise. Communication is key in reducing these uncertainties and fostering clarity between individuals.

How does organizational culture theory explain organizational values?

Organizational culture theory posits that organizational values are better understood when members of an organization develop a sense of the organization's reality. Culture plays a significant role, and it varies across different organizations.

What does uses and gratification theory examine?

Uses and gratification theory examines the level of consumers' need for media gratification and the effects of their media use. It looks at how increased or decreased involvement in media use influences individuals.

What is the core belief of cultural studies in communication?

Cultural studies in communication is based on the belief that culture permeates all aspects of human behavior. It focuses on the power structures within society and how media dominance influences subordinate groups.

What does face negotiation theory focus on in interpersonal interactions?

Face negotiation theory focuses on how conflicts arise in interpersonal interactions when individuals fail to manage their self-identity and face. It emphasizes the importance of negotiating self-image, face, and culture to prevent face-threatening acts.

What does the 'purpose' in the 'PURPOSE' acronym represent in communication?

In the 'PURPOSE' acronym, 'P' stands for 'Purpose.' It highlights that communication begins with a clear intent, explaining why a conversation is initiated, which depends on the situation or the goals of the individuals involved.

How does understanding play a role in effective communication, according to the 'PURPOSE' model?

'U' stands for 'Understanding' in the 'PURPOSE' model. It emphasizes that effective communication relies on comprehending the message clearly. When communication is understood, conflicts are less likely to occur.

What is meant by participation in the 'PURPOSE' model of communication?

'P' in the 'PURPOSE' model stands for 'Participation.' This refers to the active involvement in discussions, dialogues, and talks, allowing individuals to show their judgments and express their critical thoughts on various topics.