Interpersonal Communication- A Mindful Approach to Relationships, 2020a

another study, Laura Stafford and Daniel Canary illustrated the importance of communication in dating
relationships. 10 All in all, communication is needed for people to relate to others, build connections, and
help our relationships exist.
Key Takeaways
• We need communication. We need to be able to study communication because
we spend so much time doing it, we could learn to be more effective at it, and it is
something we have done for a long time.
• Research has shown us that communication can help us with physical needs.
When we are hungry or thirsty, we can tell someone this, but also it helps to
release stress.
• To maintain, create, or terminate relationships, we need communication.
Communication helps fulfill our social needs to connect with others.
• To function, we need communication for practical needs.
Exercises
• Think of an example for each communication need. Which need is most important
for you? Why?
• Why do you think it is important to study communication? Is this class required
for you? Do you think it should be a requirement for everyone?
• Think about how your identity has been shaped by others. What is something
that was said to you that impacted how you felt? How do you feel now about the
comment?
1.2 Basic Principles of Human Communication
Learning
2. Describe the nature of symbols and their importance to human
communication.
3. Explain seven important factors related to human
Outcomes
communication.
The origin of the wordcan be traced back to the Latin word communico, which is
translated to mean “to join or unite,” “to connect,” “to participate in” or “to share with all.” This root
word is the same one from which we get not only the word communicate, but also common, commune,
communion, and community. Thus, we can define communication as a process by which we share ideas or
Interpersonal Communication 6