LAUNCHING YOUR STUDY OF
COMMUNICATION THEORY
Chapter 1
Em Griffin
A First Look at Communication Theory,
7th ed.
CLICKER QUESTION
Which description best fits:
A.
A HOUSE PLANT
B.
A REQUEST FOR WATER
C.
A HOUSEHOLD THAT APPRECIATES PLANTS
D.
A PART OF SOMEONE’S HOME
CLICKER QUESTION
• A THEORY IS:
•
•
•
•
A. WHEN WE DON’T KNOW THE TRUTH
B. A FICTION
C. THE FINAL ANALYSIS OF HOW SOMETHING WORKS
D. AN EXPLANATION
• “This is a book about theories—
communication theories”(p. 2).
• What is a theory?
A theory offers an explanation;
An integrated system of concepts, ideas and
the relationships among them;
What is a theory?
• Some images (metaphors):
– Theories as Nets
• We work to make the mesh finer and finer
– Theories as Lenses
• Theories shape our perceptions by focusing attention on some features while ignoring others;
– Theories as Maps
• A guide through unfamiliar territory
• Caution: “The map is not the territory.”
WHAT IS COMMUNICATION?
• Working definition: “Communication is the
relational process of creating and interpreting
messages that elicit a response.”
• MESSAGES:
– SYMBOLIC ACTIVITY—
• CREATION OF MESSAGES:
– The communicator is making a conscious choice of
message form and substance;
WHAT IS COMMUNICATION?
• INTERPRETATION OF MESSAGES:
– “Messages do not interpret themselves.” The meaning of the
message is not in the words or gestures.
• A RELATIONAL PROCESS:
– Communication is a process—not a snapshot.
– Relational meaning, communication affects the connections
among people
• MESSAGES THAT ELICIT A RESPONSE:
– The effect of the message upon people who receive it—
– Response—any cognitive, emotional, or behavioral reaction
– If there is no response, there is not communication
A 2nd MODEL OF THE
COMMUNICATION PROCESS