Interpersonal Communication Models to Know for Communication for Leaders

Interpersonal communication models help leaders understand how messages are sent, received, and interpreted. These models highlight the importance of clarity, feedback, and relationship dynamics, enabling effective communication that fosters trust and collaboration within teams.

1. Shannon and Weaver's Model

   • Introduced the concept of a linear communication process involving a sender, message, channel, receiver, and noise.
   • Emphasizes the importance of clarity in the transmission of messages to minimize misunderstandings.
   • Highlights the role of feedback in improving communication effectiveness.

2. Berlo's SMCR Model

   • Stands for Source, Message, Channel, and Receiver, focusing on the components of communication.
   • Stresses the significance of the source's credibility and the receiver's understanding for effective communication.
   • Considers the impact of the chosen channel on the message's reception and interpretation.

3. Schramm's Interactive Model

   • Introduces the idea of shared experiences and fields of experience between communicators.
   • Emphasizes the role of feedback and the dynamic nature of communication as a two-way process.
   • Recognizes that meaning is co-created through interaction, not just transmitted.

4. Transactional Model of Communication

   • Views communication as a simultaneous process where both parties are senders and receivers.
   • Highlights the influence of context, environment, and relationships on the communication process.
   • Acknowledges that communication is ongoing and evolves over time.

5. Helical Model

   • Represents communication as a spiral, illustrating growth and development over time.
   • Suggests that past interactions influence current communication, creating a continuous learning process.
   • Emphasizes the complexity and depth of interpersonal relationships.

6. Johari Window Model

   • A tool for understanding self-awareness and mutual understanding in communication.
   • Divides personal awareness into four quadrants: open, blind, hidden, and unknown.
   • Encourages feedback and self-disclosure to expand the open area and improve interpersonal relationships.

7. Social Penetration Theory

   • Describes the process of relationship development as a gradual increase in self-disclosure.
   • Uses the metaphor of an onion to illustrate layers of intimacy in communication.
   • Highlights the importance of trust and reciprocity in deepening relationships.

8. Uncertainty Reduction Theory

   • Focuses on how individuals seek to reduce uncertainty about others through communication.
   • Identifies strategies such as passive, active, and interactive methods to gather information.
   • Emphasizes the role of communication in building relationships and reducing anxiety.

9. Expectancy Violations Theory

   • Examines how individuals respond to unexpected behaviors in communication.
   • Suggests that violations can be perceived positively or negatively based on the relationship and context.
   • Highlights the importance of understanding social norms and expectations in interpersonal interactions.

10. Cognitive Dissonance Theory

    • Explores the discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs or attitudes.
    • Suggests that individuals are motivated to reduce dissonance through changing beliefs, acquiring new information, or minimizing the importance of the conflict.
    • Emphasizes the role of communication in resolving dissonance and achieving consistency in beliefs.