Positive Communication and Its Effect on Interpersonal Relationships
Abstract
This paper provides information about what positive communication is and the effect it has on interpersonal relationships.
Positive Communication and Its Effect on Interpersonal Relationships
The more effectively people communicate with their significant other, the more satisfying and successful their relationship will be. Most people will agree that in order to have a successful relationship it requires positive and effective communication.
What is positive communication?
Bill Mansell, President of MindPerk Inc. states that “positive relationships can mean the difference between success or failure in our business, family and personal life. And, communication is the key to these relationships.” Mansell shares ten steps that can help with a positive communication:
1) Communicate often. To communicate often simply means that many people wait to discuss things of importance because they either want to wait for a better time or because they are trying to avoid the issues. Putting off these important discussions can be detrimental to a relationship. Even though there may be times when it is better to put certain discussions off until, for instance, the moment is not so heated, it is essential to talk to one another as often as possible. According to Reuben E. Gross, PhD, “for committed or married couples, constant discussion and mutual exploration of needs and frustrations is recommended.” Communication needs to be done often; agreements must be renewed and renegotiated on a regular basis in order for relationships to be truly effective. Assuming that an agreement you made 10 years ago still stands true is purely wishful thinking. Communicating often allows room for renegotiation.
2) Listen. Mansell says listening does not only mean that you are paying attention to what your partner is saying, but understanding his/her point of view is essential. Since we all grew up in different surroundings we all have different families, cultures, backgrounds and
This paper provides information about what positive communication is and the effect it has on interpersonal relationships.
Positive Communication and Its Effect on Interpersonal Relationships
The more effectively people communicate with their significant other, the more satisfying and successful their relationship will be. Most people will agree that in order to have a successful relationship it requires positive and effective communication.
What is positive communication?
Bill Mansell, President of MindPerk Inc. states that “positive relationships can mean the difference between success or failure in our business, family and personal life. And, communication is the key to these relationships.” Mansell shares ten steps that can help with a positive communication:
1) Communicate often. To communicate often simply means that many people wait to discuss things of importance because they either want to wait for a better time or because they are trying to avoid the issues. Putting off these important discussions can be detrimental to a relationship. Even though there may be times when it is better to put certain discussions off until, for instance, the moment is not so heated, it is essential to talk to one another as often as possible. According to Reuben E. Gross, PhD, “for committed or married couples, constant discussion and mutual exploration of needs and frustrations is recommended.” Communication needs to be done often; agreements must be renewed and renegotiated on a regular basis in order for relationships to be truly effective. Assuming that an agreement you made 10 years ago still stands true is purely wishful thinking. Communicating often allows room for renegotiation.
2) Listen. Mansell says listening does not only mean that you are paying attention to what your partner is saying, but understanding his/her point of view is essential. Since we all grew up in different surroundings we all have different families, cultures, backgrounds and
References: Gross, R. E. (2010). Articles. Retrieved June 10, 2010, from psychologistnj.biz: http://www.psychologistnj.biz/Articles.html#agenda Kaslow, F., & Robison, J. (1996). Long-term satisfying marriages: Perceptions of contributing factors. American Journal of Family Therapy, 24(2), 153-170. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database. Mansell, B. (2008, June 18) Positive Communication in Relationships. Retrieved June 13, 2010, from mindperk.com: http://www.mindperk.com/resources/articles/43/1/182/Positive-Communication-in-Relationships.html Nichols, M.P., & Schwartz, R.C. (2004). Family Therapy Concepts and Methods (Sixth Edition). New York: Pearson Education, Inc. Non-Verbal Communication. (n.d.). Retrieved June 14, 2010, from bizmove.com: http://www.bizmove.com/skills/m8g.htm Nonverbal Communication Skills. (2009, September). Retrieved June 14, 2010, from helpguide.org: http://helpguide.org/mental/eq6_nonverbal_communication.htm Poor Communication…, n.d. Retrieved June 14, 2010, from iloveyouloveme.com: http://www.iloveyouloveme.com/relationship_advice/poor_communication.htm Rosenblatt, P., & Rieks, S. (2009). No Compromise: Couples Dealing with Issues for Which They Do Not See a Compromise. American Journal of Family Therapy, 37(3), 196-208. doi:10.1080/01926180802405554. Skogrand, L., Mueller, M., Arrington, R., LeBlanc, H., Spotted Elk, D., Dayzie, I., Rosenband, R. (2008). STRONG NAVAJO MARRIAGES. American Indian & Alaska Native Mental Health Research: The Journal of the National Center, 15(2), 25-41. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database. Wheeler, R.S. (1999). The Working of Language: From Prescriptions to Perspectives. Westport: Prager Publishers.