UnderstandingVerbal Messages

HCOM 100

Instructor: _______________

UnderstandingVerbal Messages

Why focus on language? The nature of language The power of words Confronting bias in language Using Words to establish supportive

relationships

Why Focus on language

Words are powerful You choose

language

Former Congresswoman from Texas,

the late Barbara Jordan, recognized that

language can be a powerful tool to help

us exert influence and enhance our

relationships. (Beebe & Ivy, 2004, pg. 57)

The Nature of Language

A language is a system of symbols (words or vocabulary) structured by grammar (rules and standards) and syntax (patterns in the arrangement of words) common to a community of people.

Words dictate and limit the nature of our reality.

People use Words as Symbols The meaning of a word is how a person

interprets or makes sense of a symbol. Bypassing occurs when the speaker’s and the

receiver’s meanings do not correspond.

People Create Denotative and Connotative Meanings

The denotative level of language conveys content.

The connotative level of language conveys feelings.

People Convey Meanings Through Words

A word is concrete if we can see it, touch it, smell it, taste it, or hear it.

If we cannot, the word is abstract. Concrete messages are more clear,

abstract terms or more difficult to understand or agree upon.

Meanings Are Culture-Bound

Culture consists of the rules, norms, and values of a group of people that have been learned and shaped from one generation to the next.

The meaning of words can change from culture to culture.

Meanings areContext-Bound Symbols derive their meaning from the

situation in which they are used.

The Power of Words

Words have the power to create and label experience.

Words have the power to impact thoughts and actions.

Words have the power to shape and reflect culture.

Words have the power to make and break relationships.

Confronting Biasin Language

Words that reflect bias toward other cultures can create barriers for listeners.

Political correctness involves the use of language that does not exclude or offend listeners.

Biased Language: Race, Ethnicity, Nationality and Religion Allness occurs when words reflect

unqualified, often untrue generalizations that deny individual differences or variations.

Keep abreast of linguistic changes and adopt the designations currently preferred by members of the ethnic groups themselves.

Biased Language: Gender and Sexual Orientation Sexist language reveals bias in favor of

one sex against another. The use of a masculine term as though it

were generic. To avoid sexist language, use either she or

he, he/she, or s/he. Homophobic language reveals

insensitivity or intolerance toward persons who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual.

Biased Language: Age, Class, and Ability

Inventory your language for terms that are disrespectful to elders or patronizing to younger persons.

Monitor references to socioeconomic differences (e.g., blue- and white-collar workers).

Avoid drawing attention to a person’s physical, mental, or learning ability.

Using Words to Establish Supportive Relationships

Trigger words are forms of language that arouse certain emotions.

Verbal behaviors can contribute to feelings of either supportiveness or defensiveness.

Using Words to Establish Supportive Relationships Describe your own feelings rather than evaluate

others Solve problems rather than control others Be genuine rather than manipulative Empathize rather than remain detached from

others Be flexible rather than rigid toward others Present yourself as equal rather than superior

What questions do you have?

HOMEWORK:Reading?Turn in assignment?