Module 1- Communication and Self Concept

Table of Contents

1. Think About It!
2. In this Module
3. Becoming an Effective Communicator
   1. Why We Communicate
   2. The Communication Process
   3. Communication Principles and Misconceptions
   4. Communication Competence
   5. Self-Awareness: Who Are You?
   6. The Development of Self-Concept
   7. Characteristics of Self-Concept
   8. Self-Esteem Development
   9. Self-fulfilling Prophecy
   10. Changing Your Self-Concept and Attitude
4. Resources used in preparing this Module

Communication Competence

The competent communicator is skilful at using a wide range of communication styles that respond to a situation in a manner that will effectively enhance the relationship.

In the book Interpersonal Communications: Relating to Others, pp. 26- 29, the authors suggest that we use the following strategy in order to become more competent communicators:

• Become Knowledgeable - know how interpersonal communication works
• Become Skilled - hear it, see it, do it, correct It - practise it!
• Become Motivated - want to use your skills
• Become Flexible - adapt your behaviour to the situation
• Ethical - establish trust and reduce barriers by becoming sensitive to the needs of others
• Other-orientated - consider the thoughts, needs, motives and goals of the other person (Beebe, S. et al, 2007)

Communication is an important part of our daily lives at home and in the community; at work and at play; within personal or impersonal relations. Through knowledge, commitment, self-reflection and practice we can all learn to become skilful, competent communicators.

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