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Aspects of Interpersonal Communication

Montsheng Mallane

Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Psychology and Counselling)

South African College of Applied Psychology (Pty) Ltd.

Interpersonal Communication Skills

Carika Young

4 November 2024
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Table of Contents

Interpersonal Communication 3

Interpersonal communications as transferable skill 3

The importance of non-verbal communication in a counselling setting 4

The effectiveness and concepts of interpersonal communication 4

The influence of culture on interpersonal communication 5

Conclusion 6

References 7
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Interpersonal Communication

Communication is a universal skill that is key if we are to succeed personally,

socially or professionally. It is commonly explained as talking to each-other or the exchange

of messages between people. Regardless of language, culture or race, and although the

customs and methods of communication may vary, the essential need to express thoughts,

feelings and information remains unchanged. It stretches beyond speaking and sharing

information and can occur without words, it can be applied differently due to different

contexts, it can be intentional/non-intentional and within oneself or interpersonal (Reems,

2023).

This paper focuses on interpersonal communication, which is defined by Mason &

Scheming (2013), as the exchange of messages between two or more individuals, aimed at

fostering and sustaining a shared understanding. It is highly interactive and its significance of

interpersonal communication becomes evident in the context of building trusting long-term

relationships and trust. In particular, the paper delves into the different concepts of

interpersonal communication, non-verbal communication, and the influence of culture, as a

way of enhancing our understanding of interpersonal communication.

Interpersonal communication as a transferable skill

Transferable skills are by definition, skills that are relevant and helpful across

different situations and areas of life (Nägele & Stalder, 2017). These are key in enhancing

interpersonal communication and include various elements. First is active listening, in

which full attention is given to the speaker, demonstrating understanding. When the listener

actively engages in the conversation by asking clarification questions, and paraphrases the

speaker's message, they can ensure effective communication. Additionally, empathy is

essential in understanding the feelings of others, thereby fostering deeper connections and

building trust in interpersonal relationships. Finally, conflict resolution skills are vital in
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managing disagreements constructively and finding mutually acceptable solutions (DeVito,

2019).

Non-verbal communication

Non-verbal communication refers to communication without words. Interestingly, the

majority of communication is reportedly derived from non-verbal behaviour, which makes it

quite significant. Moreover, non-verbal communication is vital as can lead to both

understanding and misunderstanding (Burgoon et al., 2021 ). It includes non-verbal cues

such as hand gestures, posture, body language, facial expressions and tone of voice, which

are key in counselling settings, considering that what is said equally important as how it is

said and that these non-verbal cues express emotion without active awareness by a client in

therapy (Pally, 2001).

This form of communication is a vital competency for facilitating progress in therapy

(Mariska & Harrawood, 2013), since non-verbal cues exhibited by a client provide crucial

insights into their emotional state. Notable examples of this include facial expressions and

paralanguage, which according to Beier & Young (2017), are key components of non-verbal

communication. There exists a strong connection between non-verbal communication and

the development of a robust therapeutic alliance, as it brings to light unconscious responses

that can be examined collaboratively by both the client and the therapist (Mariska &

Harrawood, 2013).

Effectiveness and concepts of interpersonal communication

Various concepts exist that have a major impact on the effectiveness of

communication in various ways. Self-concept and self -esteem are closely related and as

such, the perceptions we hold about ourselves, our emotional states, talents, our

likes/dislikes, how we would like to be viewed by others, how we think others should see us

and how we want to see ourselves, determine our communication habits (Sampthirao,

2016).

People with high self esteem feel positively about themselves and others, and are

able to build healthy relationships. Conversely, those with low self-esteem tend to struggle
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with effective communication as they view things negatively and may focus more on their

failures. They are more likely to take other people’s comments as criticism or hostility

(Wrench et al., 2020).

Self-awareness, on the other hand, involves knowing oneself, recognizing emotions,

strengths, weaknesses, and how others perceive us. Individuals lacking self-awareness may

struggle to understand their own emotions, leading to miscommunication, conflicts, or

misunderstandings in relationships. Lastly, self-esteem pertains to the overall evaluation of

oneself, including self-judgement, self-worth and self-respect one holds (Carver, 2012).

The influence of culture of interpersonal communication

Communication and culture reciprocally influence each other. The culture in which an

individual is socialized influences the way they communicate and the way they communicate

can change the culture.(Giri, 2006). Culture plays a major role in interpersonal

communication in the South African context with our rich history, diverse languages, and

traditions.It influences how individuals interact with each other, express emotions and

convey messages and understanding these cultural nuances is essential.

Each of our eleven official languages, represent a unique cultural group therefore,

language reflects the values, beliefs, and norms of a particular culture which influence the

communication style with some groups being indirect and others being assertive and direct.

Understanding non-verbal cues is important because the messages conveyed through those

may differ across cultures. For instance, eye contact is seen as a sign of respect in some

cultures but considered confrontational or disrespectful in others. Understanding these non-

verbal cues is crucial in avoiding misunderstandings and establishing rapport in

interpersonal relationships.
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Conclusion

Interpersonal communication is an essential skill that goes beyond language and cultural

differences, serving a vital function in establishing relationships and promoting

understanding between people. The success of this communication is shaped by elements,

such as active listening, empathy, self-awareness, and cultural subtleties, all of which help

cultivate trust and create meaningful connections.

References

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self and identity (2nd ed., pp. 50–68). The Guilford Press.

Beier, E., & M. Young, D. (2017). Non-verbal communication in psychotherapy. In

the silent language of psychotherapy (Vol. 7, Issue 6, pp. 243–254).

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Burgoon, J.K., Manusov, V., & Guerrero, L.K. (2021). Non-verbal communication.

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DeVito, J. A. (2019). The interpersonal communication book.. Pearson Education

Giri, V. N. (2006). Culture and Communication Style. Review of Communication, 6(1–2),

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Mariska, M. A., & Harrawood, L. K. (2013). Understanding the unsaid: Enhancing

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Nägele, C & Stalder, B. (2017). Competence and the need for transferable skills.

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Pally, R. (2001). A Primary Role for Non-verbal communication in psychoanalysis.

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Reems, M. (2023). Definition of Communication.

Sampthirao, P. (2016). Self-concept and interpersonal communication. The International

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Wrench, J.S, Punyanunt-Carter, N.M & Thweatt, K.S (2020). Interpersonal communication:

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