COMMUNICATION

What is communication?

Sending and receiving of messages between people

Two forms of communication Verbal – using words Non Verbal – conveying messages

without words

“I” messages

You say how you feel and what you think, rather than criticizing someone else

“I feel… (here you name an emotion- anger, fear, disappointment) When you…(here you say what behavior bothers you) Because….”(here you explain why it bothers you)”

Ex: “I feel angry when you talk out loud because you are disturbing the other students.”

“You” message

You criticize others by putting the blame on them

“You…(blaming the person for something)”

Example: “You always think you can have things your way!”

Passive Behavior A person’s hands are fidgety is example of

passive behavior When a person tries not to hurt other’s

feelings, but usually gets taken advantage of in the process.

Doesn’t always get what he/she wants b/c they are afraid to ask

Heads down, avoiding eye contact, speaking in a hushed tone

General appearance: giggling/silly, beating around the bush, body language and words don’t match

Aggressive Behavior When a person only want his or her

own way and doesn’t care how they get it

Invading a person’s personal space, using threatening gestures, loud or mocking tone of voice

Language may include a lot of “you” message (accusations, threats, or insults)

General appearance: sarcastic, bully, smart –aleck attitude

Assertive Behavior When a person does not infringe on

others’ desires, wants, or needs. When a person acts assertively you don’t

lose self respect and you get your point across without hurting other’s feelings.

Use direct, honest statements and showing respect for others.

Uses “ I” messages when possible Avoids blaming, put –downs, demands, or

threats General Appearance: pays attention,

strong, and caring