Film Paper
Interpersonal Communication in Jerry Maguire
Adrian Chang
Tanner Wilson
COM 110
March 18, 2013
Communication is a key aspect of our daily interactions, and perhaps the most important tool in our lives. Whether we realize it or not, we use communication principles in almost every single thing we do or say, affecting not only ourselves but those around us as well. If you know where to look, you can recognize the ideologies on communication all around us. These concepts are in everything, from the way we talk to our friends, learn in class, and even in the things we do for fun, such as reading or watching movies. Jerry Maguire is one such example. The way the characters in the film interact with one another as well as conduct their day to day routines can be analyzed to further explain the concepts of interpersonal communications. Concepts covered include the very reason we find it necessary to communicate, the cultural/social aspects of communication, the way communication affects how we perceive ourselves and others, and the various ways in which we communicate with one another. Perhaps the best place to begin any discussion about communication is why we need it in the first place. As discussed in the text by Adler, Rosenfeld, and Proctor, it boils down to four basic human needs that are satisfied through communicating with others. The first are physical needs, meaning that the lack of communication can actually physically affect us. Throughout the course of the movie, Jerry illustrates time and time again that he fears this, and avoids being alone at all costs. At his bachelor party, one of his closest friends presents a video of messages from past loved ones, who all agree that Jerry Maguire is incapable of being alone. When he breaks up with his fiancée, Avery, her first reaction is disbelief because she, too, knows that he cannot be alone. Dorothy, in fact, uses his fear of the word to convince him to invite her out on their first dinner
Adrian Chang
Tanner Wilson
COM 110
March 18, 2013
Communication is a key aspect of our daily interactions, and perhaps the most important tool in our lives. Whether we realize it or not, we use communication principles in almost every single thing we do or say, affecting not only ourselves but those around us as well. If you know where to look, you can recognize the ideologies on communication all around us. These concepts are in everything, from the way we talk to our friends, learn in class, and even in the things we do for fun, such as reading or watching movies. Jerry Maguire is one such example. The way the characters in the film interact with one another as well as conduct their day to day routines can be analyzed to further explain the concepts of interpersonal communications. Concepts covered include the very reason we find it necessary to communicate, the cultural/social aspects of communication, the way communication affects how we perceive ourselves and others, and the various ways in which we communicate with one another. Perhaps the best place to begin any discussion about communication is why we need it in the first place. As discussed in the text by Adler, Rosenfeld, and Proctor, it boils down to four basic human needs that are satisfied through communicating with others. The first are physical needs, meaning that the lack of communication can actually physically affect us. Throughout the course of the movie, Jerry illustrates time and time again that he fears this, and avoids being alone at all costs. At his bachelor party, one of his closest friends presents a video of messages from past loved ones, who all agree that Jerry Maguire is incapable of being alone. When he breaks up with his fiancée, Avery, her first reaction is disbelief because she, too, knows that he cannot be alone. Dorothy, in fact, uses his fear of the word to convince him to invite her out on their first dinner
References: Adler, R. B., Rosenfeld, L. B., & Proctor II, R. F. (2001). Interplay: The Process of Interpersonal Communication (12th ed.). New York, NY: Oxford University Press. Johnson, B. (Producer), & Crowe, C (Director). (1996). Jerry Maguire [Motion picture]. United States: TriStar Pictures, Gracie Films.