All of us, no matter how learned or skilled in the field of communication, still experience problems communicating interpersonally with others to some degree, so we need to find ways to increase our competence as communicators. By completing this paper I hope you will gain both confidence and ability to more effectively deal with interpersonal communication problems in the future.
Specifics of the Paper
In this paper, you will: (1) describe an aspect of interpersonal communication that you recognize as being an area of needed improvement for yourself, (2) apply 3 theories (no more no less – bold type the names of the theories or lose points) and concepts from our textbook and/or class Power Points to analyze why you might encounter some of the communication problems that you experience, (3) again, using theories and concepts from text reading and/or online lectures or class information, describe an action plan for improving communication competence in that area you’ve discussed.
Selecting a Topic Area
One way to proceed with this paper is to think of situations where you find it difficult to engage in communication or to achieve your communication goals. For example, maybe you find it difficult not to compete during interpersonal conflict, maybe you’re just not sure how to disclose feelings in a relationship that is important to you, or maybe you don’t know how to effectively listen to a child or parent.
Another suggestion is to make notes of topics discussed in your text with which you can personally identify. For example, after reading the text you may realize that you use language in unconventional ways, possibly in detrimental ways. Or, after reading about nonverbal communication, you realize that you misinterpret a friend’s facial expressions a great deal.
Format of the paper
You do not submit this outline. I am providing the guide to help you organize your writing.
Introduction (usually 1-2 paragraphs)
I. Statement to get reader’s attention
II. Identify importance of communication to relationships
III. Thesis statement
Body (majority of paper – usually 3 to 8 paragraphs)
I. Describe an aspect of communication that you recognize as being an area of needed improvement for yourself.
II. Analyze why you might experience the problems that you do.
III. Describe an action plan for improving communication in the area that you’ve discussed.
Conclusion
I. Summarize the paper
II. Wrap up the paper with a statement of significance