Definition: Interpersonal Communication

Interpersonal communication is the process of sending and receiving information between two or more people.nnTypes of Interpersonal CommunicationnThis kind of communication is subdivided into dyadic communication, Public speaking, and small-group communication.nnDyadic communication is simply a method of communication that only involves two people such as a telephone conversation or even a set of letters sent to and received from a penpal. In this communication process, sender can immediately receive and evaluate feedback from the receiver. So that, it allows for more specific tailoring of the message and more personal communication than do many of the other media.nnBasic elementsnThe process involves four basic elements. Sender; person who sends information. Receiver; person who receives the information sent. Message; content of information sent by sender. Feedback; response from receiver.nnCommunication ChannelsnCommunication channels are the medium chosen to convey the message from sender to receiver. Communication channels can be categorized into two main categories: Direct and Indirect channels of communication.nnDirect channels are those that are obvious, and can be easily recognized by the receiver. They are also under direct control of the sender. In this category are the verbal and non-verbal channels of communication. Verbal communication channels are those that use words in some manner, such as written communication or spoken communication. Non-verbal communication channels are those that do not require words, such as certain overt facial expressions, controllable body movements (such as that made by a traffic police to control traffic at an intersection), colour (red for danger, green means go etc), sound (sirens, alarms etc.).nnIndirect channels are those channels that are usually recognized subliminally or subconsciously by the receiver, and not under direct control of the sender. This includes kinesics or body language, that reflects the inner emotions and motivations rather than the actual delivered message. It also includes such vague terms as "gut feeling", "hunches" or "premonitions".nnWikipedia, the free encyclopedia © 2001-2006 Wikipedia contributors (Disclaimer)nThis article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.