The Basics of Interpersonal Relationships Essay Example for Free

The Basics of Interpersonal Relationships Essay After considering your request for advice on interpersonal communications I have come to the decision that the information I have learned in my communications class could be beneficial for a young, recently engaged couple. Addressing the most important points could be useful, especially now that you both have decided to take your relationship to the next level. I have learned in this class that having good communication skills benefits everyone and that it is particularly important in building a stronger and more successful marriage. Although we communicate without giving it much thought, not everyone has the proper skills to communicate well so I have selected five areas of interpersonal communication which I will pass on to you in this letter. The skills I consider to be most crucial in achieving a long and happy marriage are, principles and misconceptions, self-concept, gender and cultural differences, nonverbal communication and last but most importantly, listening. There are many communication skills necessary to ensure a successful relationship, and when it comes to effective interpersonal communications there are many aspects of communicating that we need to remember. Communication and the way we communicate is said to be what separates us from our animal cousins. It is defined as â€Å"a process by which we share ideas of information with other people† (cited in Sole, p.5). Whether it is verbal or nonverbal, communication is the most important aspect of building a lasting relationship. Principles and Misconceptions To begin with I would like to explain a little about the principles and misconceptions in terms of interpersonal communications. It is necessary to mention that â€Å"Communication is not simply the exchange of words and information; it is the means through which we share knowledge, thoughts, ideas, and feelings with other people†¦the way people connect with other people†¦and it is these interactions that create the meaning and richness of life† (Cited in Sole, preface). Linguists who have studied the basis of the human language believe that the human language uses symbols such as words, pictures or objects to represent something else. It has been agreed upon that certain communications symbols stand for certain sounds or written combination of letters to equate to a particular object (Sole, 2011). Because the meaning of a word can conger up different images for everyone it is crucial, that when communicating with others, that there is a shared understanding of the meaning of the words to eliminate any misconceptions for either the person speaking or the person listening. Improving your interpersonal verbal communication skills enables one to be better understood and results in fewer miscommunications. Let me stress at this time that it is imperative that you take the time to get feedback when having a conversation in  order to make sure that the other person understands exactly what you are saying. Although it has been thought that good communication skills between loved ones are strong, recent studies show that couples are often times no better at communicating with one another than they are with strangers. I recently read an article that was published in U.S. News World Report in January of 2011 on communication, as it pertains to close relationships. The outcome of a study done by professors Kenneth Savitsky and Nicholas Epley offers valid examples of common miscommunications with couples. . As the study co-author Epley points out â€Å"Our problem in communicating with friends and spouses is that we have an illusion of insight (Epley, 2011). Many of us tend to assume that those we care about will be able to interpret the information we are offering without needing clarification. Well, this does not always happen. Effectively translating and conveying information while being sensitive to other people’s feelings is a skill. Even though communicating is often times complex, with continuous practice we can avoid the misunderstandings that can lead to problems in our personal lives. Having affective interpersonal communication skills can be the beginning; the initial step for bot h of you toward a mutual understanding which can lead to a successful relationship (Sole, 2011). Another important aspect of interpersonal communication that I would like to share with you is that of self-concept, which can be described as a complicated process that involves our gaining self-awareness, or in simpler terms, self-concept has to do with how we see ourselves as well as how others see us. It develops as a child and with the proper guidance can develop into a healthy image of one’s self. On the other hand negativity can also affect how we see ourselves (Sole, 2011). A child who grows up with positive reinforcement is more likely to be a confident individual who possesses the ability to converse in a more effective manner. It is here that I would like to disclose to you some personal information that will show how vital self-concept is. I was the product of a broken home. Now, you may argue that this is not unusual, but you should keep in mind that I grew up in the sixties; divorce was not as common as it is today. I was raised by a verbally abusive mother and suffered for a number of years as a young adult from low self-esteem, and as I have learned from taking this class, low self-esteem leads to insecurity and a lack of confidence. I worked for years to reverse the damage that was done. I was well into my thirties before I had gained the confidence necessary to build a good relationship. Since the psychological concepts of self relates to interpersonal communications in many ways, this is a critical factor in communications, not only how it affects the way we interact with others, but how they interact with us. In the textbook, Making connections: Understanding interpersonal communication written by Kathy Sole (2011), she notes that, not only is self-concept learned, it is changeable. It is developed through interaction with other. In other words, self-concept, self-image, and self-esteem not only define who we are, but govern relationship quality. Having a positive self-concept leads to positive self-image, this in turn ensures a more positive feeling of self-esteem (Sole, 2011). Gender and Cultural Differences From here we can start to access other problem areas that couples are confronted with such as gender and cultural differences. Gender and cultural differences is an area that many couples have difficulty with at one time or another. I am sure that you have noticed the diversity that exists when comparing the way men and women carry on a conversation. Even though we all want to connect to others there are distinct contrasts; not only is the language different between men and women but facial expression and body language are different as well. Words are interpreted differently. This can be said for cultural differences too. Generally speaking though, both men and women can be nurturing, sentimental and even aggressive. The afore mentioned emotions, as well as how we perceive each other and nonverbal communication, all go hand-in hand when striving to achieve effective interpersonal communications. Nonverbal communication It is surprising how much can be communicated without uttering a single word, or what is called nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication can relay a message through a frown, a cold stare, or even shrugging your shoulders. Nonverbal  communications (the process of communicating by sending wordless messages) can time and again lead to being misunderstood. Nonverbal communications encompasses not only body language, but facial expressions, and can even convey communications simply by how we choose to dress. Since very few gestures are universal, there is often times moments of awkwardness (Miczo, Segrin, Allspach , 2001). What we consider perfectly acceptable may offend a person from other cultures and some messages we send via nonverbal communication are done so unconsciously. When we use nonverbal communications we are substituting those gestures instead of using words and sometimes nonverbal messages are misunderstood (Sole, 2011). This type of communication is often times misinterpreted. For example, there was an instance when I was much younger that I found myself at a social gathering with not only friends, but people I had not yet met. It was at this function that one of the men in the group was telling us of an incident that he had recently experienced. Because I smiled and laughed in, what he considered to be, all of the appropriate places he took this to mean that I was interested in him. It was embarrassing for me because that was not the case; I was simply being a polite listener. So you can see from my experience, our nonverbal communication is as important as the words we choose in communicating with another individual or group of individuals. Remember that having an emotional discussion with someone and using the wrong hand gestures and/or facial expressions might cause a person to misinterpret or misunderstand what you are actually trying to convey to them. Listening Last but not least, and often times one of the most overlooked issue when discussing interpersonal communication, and what I feel to be the most important part of successful communication for couples, is listening. I am sure you have found yourself at times not giving your full attention when someone is speaking to you. A lack of motivation is often times the culprit. We all have a tendency to start thinking about other things if the speaker is not holding our attention, I am including myself, but to be a good listener ensures, that given all of the information, you will be able to offer a valid response. In order to relate to others it is important to listen to what they have to say. Even though we have been taught from childhood various skills such as reading and writing, one skill that is often overlooked is listening. Most of us feel that we are good listeners, but most of us are guilty of only hearing not listening. Listening is essential to the success of a compatible and long lasting relationship, but let me add that bad habits in regards to listening can be changed. Communication is the very means by which we share not only our ideas, but our thoughts and feelings with others In summing up the information that I have provided you with, it is my hope that the facts laid out in this letter will help you avoid the pitfalls of conversation that plague many couples. Remember Sam and Katie, that it is not how often you converse, but more the quality of your conversations with each other and that to be a good listener it is imperative that you make every attempt to give the conversation your full attention. It is  my hope that providing you both with information to build a lasting relationship through good communications will ensure a long and happy life together. Congratulations again to both of you. Keep in mind that there are other important aspects when it comes to communicating effectively, but I have shared with both of you essential information regarding what I consider to be five of the most significant areas that often effect good communication in a relationship. â€Å"Take advantage of every opportunity to practice your communication skills so that when important occasions arise, you will have the gift, the style, the sharpness, the clarity, and the emotions of affect other people.† -Jim Rohn, Author and motivational speaker (1930-2009),. Your friend, Billie References: Close relationships sometimes mask poor communication. (2011, January 24). U.S. News World,1. doi: 2270370592 Miczo, N., Segrin, C., Allspach, L. E. (2001). Relationship between nonverbal sensitivity, encoding, and relational satisfaction. Communication Reports, 14(1), 39-48. Retrieved July 28, 2012, from Research Library. Document ID: 72022836. Preston, P. (2005). Nonverbal communication: Do you really say what you mean? Journal of Healthcare Management, 50(2), 83-6. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Global. Document ID: 814698921 Schoenberg, N. (2011, January 17). Can we talk? Researcher talks about the role of communication in happy marriages. McClatchy-Tribune News Service. Retrieved from ProQuest Newsstand. Document ID: 2240370261 Sole, K., (2011). Making connections: Understanding interpersonal communication. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (https://content.ashford.edu) Sprecher, S., Hendrick, S. S. (2004, December). Self-disclosure in intimate relationships: Associations with individual and relationship characteristics over time. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 23(6), 857-877. doi:224670343

The Necessity Of Japanese Internment :: essays research papers fc

FYI (This is a biased written paper written if one were to defend Japanese Internment) The Necessity of Japanese Internment   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Much controversy has been sparked due to the internment of the Japanese people. Many ask whether it was justified to internment them. It is a very delicate issue that has two sides, those who are against the internment of the Japanese-Americans and those who are for it. With World War II raging in the East, America was still, for the most part, very inactive in the war. When America took a stand against Japan by not shipping them supplies, Japan became very upset. Japan, being a big island that is very overpopulated with little natural resources, depended on America to provide them with an assortment of supplies including scrap metal and oil, vital items that are needed in a time of war. Japan retaliated by declaring war on America and attacking Pearl Harbor. This surprise act led to many soldiers deaths and millions of dollars of damaged army equipment, including air craft carriers and planes. As a result to Japan declaring war, the Japanese-Americans were asked to and eventually forced to do their duty to the country and report to internment camps until the war conflict was over. Many opposed this act for a couple of reasons. One reason was that people felt that it was a huge hypocrisy that the Japanese were being interned while the Italians and Germans, also our enemies, were still walking around free in America. Another reason why many were against the internment was because many of the Japanese had already been in America for some time now. The Issei, the first generation of Japanese people that immigrated from Japan, had immigrated many years ago. A whole another generation of Japanese children had already began growing up in America called the Nissei. They were automatically U.S. citizens for they were born in America and for the most part were like other American children. Anti-Internment activists also said that the Japanese were being robbed of their rights as U.S. citizens. However, there are two sides to everything.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are a number of reasons why the internment of the Japanese people had to take place. Japan was a major threat to the United States which made anyone of Japanese descendent a potential traitor and threat to America’s security. No one was quite sure what they were capable of.

How Urban Centers Affect Music Development

How did the rise of urban centers and trade affect the development of music? What where those developments? The Middle Ages spanned from approximately 400 to 1400 A. D. In these times there was a lot going on historically that changed the world as we know it. I am going to write about one of those things that was responsible for altering the way that music had been developed. Mainly about the economic expansion that changed the way that music as a whole was to be defined. With the growth of the population came the progress of certain economy’s.One of these would be in agriculture. Since there was a boom of people inhabiting the areas like Italy and England there was a need to farm more and so this prompted people to come up with better ways to farm. As they boosted the agricultural output the population grew as well. This led the possibilities of the expanding population to be able to pursue other forms of work and other different long distance trading opportunities. This gave more free time to be more creative in the arts. Does this affect the development of music? Yes, it has a huge affect!Instead of music being mostly just a thing of the church it gave the people the time to explore their own interest in music. Individuals got to be more creative and actually were seeking employment in these different subjects. Instead of just being confined to music of the church they would teach music or put on shows. With the economy expanding as it was there was a market for the more wealthy couples to want to go be entertained and see live performances. There was also more experimentation of different kinds of music which sparked things like musicians being more creative about their music making.Music was also regularly being put into written form so that it was available to more and more people. Unlike when music was stuck solely in the church. Music was affected by the explosion of the economy in the middle ages and love of music and expression was available to more and more people. This is still true to this day. Sources: The Middle Ages Dr. Maureen Miller http://chnm. gmu. edu/courses/westernciv/video/miller1. html Medieval Guilds Gary Richardson, University of California, Irvine http://eh. net/encyclopedia//article/richardson. guilds

The Importance Of Loyalty In The Kite Runner - 1961 Words

Usually, parents tend to teach their children different lessons in order to guarantee a successful life for them. However, the rest of the lessons learned are taught by the surrounding and several other factors including books, music, and even arts. The novel, The Kite Runner, is one of the books that were able to reach the hearts of many people. Talking about the life from birth to adulthood of a protagonist called Amir, his family and the society at that time, the author not only expressed his emotions and feelings accurately, but also changed the life’s of many through his messages and lessons. The author of The Kite Runner, Khaled Hosseini, wrote his book in hopes to teach different messages and lessons including, the importance of†¦show more content†¦So they took him to the street and order him to kneel and shot him in the back of the head.† (Hosseini 219) This quote proves Hassan’s devotion after sacrificing his family and his own life for Amir. The author used simile to describe the situation; the taliban’s strength was compared to the wolves’ strength as they hunt sheep and Hassan’s weakness was described to a sheep when being a prey. However above all that weakness of a sheep, Hassan decided to keep up his bravery and stay loyal to Amir and Rahim Khan. Therefore, loyalty is very important in every relationship whether friendship, romantic, or otherwise, yet many people lack that trait usually because they aren’t brave enough to sacrifice for someone which ends up ruining the bond. That wasn’t the case with Hassan; â€Å"he was loyal when most people could find it quite difficult to be loyal† (Grant, Lizzy) which is a message Khaled Hosseini is trying to spread. Not only the author encourages the readers to be loyal by proving its importance, but also he shows the benefits of giving. In the novel, many characters followed the act of giving and in return it was for their own advantage. One example of that was when Hassan sacrificed his life for Amir. As mentioned earlier, Hassan refused to hand Assef Amir’s kite so he got sexually assaulted for that. Hassan always stood up for Amir and his happiness before looking at his own benefit. Then when Hassan and his wife died, his son, Sohrab, was left alone.Show MoreRelatedThe Kite Runner Essay1321 Words   |  6 PagesWhat are the essential values and ideas presented in The Kite Runner? Analyse and assess how effective their representation is Hosseini has expressed copious essential values and ideas in his novel The Kite Runner (TKR) including Loyalty, Culture, Gender and Ethnicity and Atonement. Hosseini has expressed these through the combination of style, structure, characterisation, themes and setting. Due to the context of The Kite Runner, culture is an important idea presented because it has major significanceRead MoreSimilarities And Differences Between The Castle And The Kite Runner725 Words   |  3 Pagesmove out of their house and their persistence to stay, against all odds. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini follows a boy and his brother, a story of loyalty and betrayal despite their limited knowledge of their relationship; a story of redemption. Both of these texts shared many similarities in stylistic, language features and literary conventions. There are some clear connections between the two texts like family’s importance and the constant informal register for inclusion of the reader. The creatorsRead MoreSummary Of The Kite Runner 1269 Words   |  6 PagesThe Kite Runner is a very powerful book that deals with many complex political and personal problems. This book has changed and challenged many of my views on life. I also found this book very inspiring and I have gained a greater appreciation for the life I have in Canada. Firstly, the text communicated with me through emotions. For example, I felt sadness for Hassan because of the way society treats him as an unequal. In addition, I have learned many things from this novel such as the importanceRead MoreThe Kite Runner: Forgiveness, Loyalty, and the Quest for Redemption2381 Words   |  10 PagesThe Kite Runner: Forgiveness, Loyalty, and the Quest for Redemption Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner is an award-winning novel and considered one of today’s most popular, contemporary classics. The story is one of familiar themes such as loyalty, forgiveness, betrayal, love, and redemption. It follows the tale of Amir and how he must atone for his sins and find a way to â€Å"be good again† (Hosseini 2). The quintessential message of this book relies on the idea of second chances. Themes of redemptionRead MoreTheme Of Friendship And Culture In The Kite Runner1248 Words   |  5 Pages The Death of Friendship and Culture in The Kite Runner Cultural influences impact the creation of an individual’s identity. Countries rely on culture to join citizens together; however, the destruction of a culture results in the disfigurement of a country and the impairment of its citizens’ identities. In Khaled Hosseini’s novel, The Kite Runner, the author depicts a dark and calamitous period during the 20th century in Afghanistan. The novel’s main character, Amir, lives in a large house withRead More Khaled Hosseinis The Kite Runner Essay1008 Words   |  5 PagesKhaled Hosseinis The Kite Runner In the Kite Runner, the author explores the ties that bind sons to fathers and childhood friends to on e another and of the forces that tear them apartRead MoreThe Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini883 Words   |  4 PagesThroughout life, everyone experiences some sort of regret from past encounters and usually feel guilty and bitter about the situation. The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini, revolves around the theme of redemption. Redemption can be used as a cure for guilt. Throughout the novel, the author shows that redemption requires some sort of sacrifice and the only way that is possible is if you can forgive yourself from the mistakes you have made in the past. Khaled Hosseini effectively portrays redemptionRead MoreInfluences Of Society In The Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini1517 Words   |  7 PagesThe Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini also shows the influences of society on individuals and their decisions. The text is about a wealthy Pashtun boy Amir, and his servants son Hassan, who is Hazara, both boys are around the same age and have grown up together, however Hassan is const antly resented by members of society as they believe he is a member of a lower caste, as a result, he is constantly picked on by the Pashtun boys, despite this Hassan stays loyal to Amir, however whenever the boys areRead MoreThe Kite Runner By Khaled Hosseini1505 Words   |  7 Pagessymbol also grabs the reader’s attention which makes them think yet, keeps them in suspense at the same time. In The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, a miraculous writer that continuously throws foreshadowing and flashbacks at the reader, portrays the use of symbols in an extraordinary way. Therefore, In the Kite Runner symbolism is portrayed through the pomegranate tree, the flying kite and the cleft lip. One of the several symbols listed in the book is the pomegranate tree. It represents the climaxRead MoreKhaled Hosseini s Kite Runner Essay1252 Words   |  6 PagesKhaled Hosseini’s Kite Runner is a historical fiction depicting the grim reality of Afghanistan, the Soviet Union’s invasion of 1979, and those affected by the events. Hosseini provides a vivid rendition of turmoil in Afghanistan by telling the tale of the protagonist, Amir, and his struggles throughout his life. The events of the novel force Amir to flee war in Afghanistan and find safety in America. Eventually, however, Amir must return to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan in order to find redemption