My Relational Communication with a Friend, Maria, a Native American - Coursework Example

Relational Communication Description This paper will analyze my relational communication with a friend, Maria, a Native American brought up in their native home; hence, upholds all their cultural practices and beliefs. In this analysis, the paper will pay attention to the component of context, and the manner in which it has molded our relational communication. The difference in cultural background has caused a barrier due to the language difference between us. We have different accents, having been brought up in different places; hence, pronouncing words differently. This has led to various instances of misunderstanding of words especially in cases when two words with the different meanings have close pronunciations. Another issue that has caused problems is the different interpretations of body language. At times, Maria takes offense in prolonged eye contact and is sensitive to the distance maintained between us when communicating. The difference in stereotypes has affected our relationship. For instance, Maria feels like I hold her in low regard since she does not have strong English skills, an aspect that has affected her trust in me. Considering our relationship, the context component forms a basis for my analysis as it incorporates aspects of organization and culture, which involve the manner in which individuals from different cultures communicate and respond to both internal and external stimuli [She07]. In this case, the external stimulus’ source is casual communication, from where the cues of body language and effects of the accent differences affect the perception of the message. In addition, emotions and experiences are forms of internal stimuli that could cause different responses. Analysis The relationship allows proper integration of most of the factors that facilitate interpersonal communication. With reference to the cybernetics theory, the flow of information is limited with most of the information being barred from reaching either of us due to the inherent barriers [Zah13]. In this case, the cultural aspects of the context component are not well negotiated in our relationship, with both of us failing to find a level ground that would accommodate each other’s cultural perspectives. On the other hand, the semiotics theory presents a clear analysis of the signs language and symbols applied as we communicate. As such, the differences in cultural backgrounds have provided for different applications of body language. This has in turn affected the way we interpret messages and culminate in the various instances of conflict. However, the conversation analysis theory plays an important role in the resolution of conflicts within our relationships where we take turns in succession to clearly and understandably explain each other’s positions before we come to a conclusion in which case is a resolution to our conflicts. With reference to the socio-cultural approach, it is evident that culture plays a major role in the breakdown of the relational communication, because of accents and stereotypes [Zah13]. Maria’s self-disclosure is minimal due of her reduced trust in me. This has contributed towards the stereotype she holds concerning individuals who have stronger English skills, such that she believes that I perceive he to be inferior due to her low skills in English. Evaluation It is clear from the analysis that our relationship is highly ineffective with existence of a high number of barriers within the context component of communication. The cultural barriers have established a rift between us through accent and stereotype differences. The differences in accent have made it difficult for both of us clearly single out the differences in pronunciations and thus subsequent differentiation of the meaning of different words that we exchange [She07]. This has led to various cases of misinterpretation of messages and thus resulted in conflict. On the other hand, the various stereotypes held by Maria in regards to being looked down upon due to her low skills in speaking English have contributed to her minimal disclosure of information concerning her feelings and perceptions, an aspect that has impaired my recognition of the various cues that could lead to the development of a better relationship. The casual communication applied is an external stimulus source, which involves different verbal and non-verbal cues, all of which have an impact on the understanding that we develop between each other and the overall perception that we hold concerning different issues. On the other hand, our emotions and initial experiences form the internal stimulus sources that have defined our interactions, with different presentations of displeasure. However, conflict resolution is handled properly as we engaged in face-to-face measures, where we analyze every aspect of our problem and consider each other’s stance before we make a conclusion on the best possible solution. Suggestions To develop a good communication relationship, there is need to create a level ground that would accommodate the cultural perspectives and allow an understanding of the different cues of language. In ensuring such, it is necessary to develop a positive attitude towards each other’s culture and social competencies [Tin12]. In this vein, it is important for Maria to adjust and understand that the different levels of skills in speaking English do not mean that prejudice is prevalent. This would allow for increased disclosure of each other’s emotions and perspectives concerning different issues that involve our relationship. With increased disclosure, we would be able to understand the various issues that displease each other and to have an in-depth understanding of the opinions that we hold concerning various aspects, and how such opinions influence our relationships with others. It is with deep understanding that we can evaluate and solve the conflicts that arise between us. On the other hand, it is important to understand each other’s needs in the relationship, as they would give an impression of expectations of each other towards the strengthening of our relationship [Tin12]. This would also contribute towards understanding the various stimuli that have an impact on the general perception of each other and thus promote stimuli that only promote the relationship while avoiding stimuli that weaken communication. Work Cited She07: , (Morreale, Spitzberg and Barge 38), Zah13: , (Mannan 60), Zah13: , (Mannan 67), She07: , (Morreale, Spitzberg and Barge 39), Tin12: , (Ting-Toomey and Chung 101), Tin12: , (Ting-Toomey and Chung 107), Read More