The 8 Principles of Interpersonal Communication

I am going to the discuss the 8 principles of interpersonal communication. Interpersonal communication is one of my favorite communication types. Additionally, I strongly believe that interpersonal communication plays a strong role in our lives. So let's begin.

1) We Cannot NOT Communicate

It is impossible not to communicate. We communicate every day in our lives. Even silence or not speaking or striking a pose is still considered communication. So there is no way not to communicate. 

2) Interpersonal Communication is Irreversible 

When you communicate to someone you cannot turn back time and reverse what you said. Once you said something to person you cannot take it back. So just be aware of what you say because you cannot go back in a time machine and change it.

3) Interpersonal Communication involves Ethical Choices 

What we say could have both a positive and negative reaction. In regards to ethics we have to be careful not to tip the balance between right or wrong. If you say something that you know is wrong...well don't say it because are words can have consequences. 

4) People Construct Meanings in Interpersonal Communication 

When we speak or communication there are connotations and symbols within our words. When we communicate we have the intent to convey an emotion or information. More so, people really pay to attention to what people are saying and how the message is packaged and delivered. 

5) Metacommunication Effects Meanings

Metacommunication is simply defined as "about communication. In a nutshell metacommunication describes how people communicate about someone else's communication. An example, can be talking to a person who is very sad and distraught and you ask them did some go wrong in their live?

6) Interpersonal Communication Develops and Sustains Relationships 

As in my first paragraph interpersonal communication is critical in building networks of relationships in our lives. Without interpersonal communication we would not have friendships, partnerships, relationships etc. 

7) Interpersonal Communication is not a Panacea 

Though interpersonal communication is essential in establishing and sustaining relationships it is always not to cure to every problem or situation in our lives. Interpersonal communication is not going to end the war or bring the Democrats and Republicans in congress. 

8) Interpersonal Communication Effectiveness can be learned 

Many people can learn the potential and power interpersonal communication has on society, an individual or a relationship. Though people are not great interpersonal communicators at first they can learn to be a master of interpersonal communication. 

-Sir Keithington