Interpersonal Communication
Course Description

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the theory and research on interpersonal communication and close relationships. A variety of different perspectives and topics will be explored when looking at the role of communication in development and maintenance of interpersonal relationships.

Course Design

This course is based on a lecture/discussion format. It is important that you come to class prepared for discussion and make contributions based upon the readings or your life experiences.

Course Objectives

The principal objectives of this course are to 1) provide knowledge about the major theories, principles, and research concerning interpersonal communication and to 2) help you improve your ability to communicate effectively within interpersonal relationships. Specifically, these objectives can be defined as follows:

  1. Gain an understanding of relationships from an attachment perspective.
  2. Gain an understanding of the role of self-concept and self-awareness in communication.
  3. Gain insights into how we perceive others, the ways they perceive us, and how these processes influence communication.
  4. Gain an understanding of the role that emotions play in communication and acquire the skills for recognizing and expressing emotions with others.
  5. Gain an understanding of how language works and acquire the skills for making your language more effective in interpersonal settings.
  6. Gain insights into how nonverbal communication operates and acquire the skills for making your own nonverbal messages more effective.
  7. Gain an understanding of what listening is and acquire the skills for listening more effectively.
  8. Gain an understanding of intimacy and distance in interpersonal relationships and how communication climates influence relationships.
  9. Gain an understanding of conflict in interpersonal relationships and acquire skills for managing conflict effectively.
  10. Gain an understanding of how gender roles are related to communication patterns and styles.