integrating theory--dialogue
15 years ago
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Self-image
In chapter 36 Griffin links some of different theories using common threads or ideas that the theories have in common. one of the concepts I identified with the most was self-image. Griffin says that "communication affects and is affected by our sense of identity, which is strongly shaped within the context of our culture." (Griffin 474). Identity is so important because we need it in order to communicate and it is what makes up what is culture. Without having an identity there would be no communication or culture. There are many different theories that have identity and culture as a common thread. Some of those theories are Mead's symbolic interactionalism, Ting-toomey's face negotiation theory and, Giles' communication accomodation theory. Self image is how we see ourselves. Our self-image affects and influences the way we communicate. As Griffin says in his cause for pause, we have all been put down by others, that would affect how we feel and in turn affect how we treat others. When Im having a bad day and my self-esttem is low, it's hard to smile and be cordial to others. Self image is a very important part of communication.
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3 comments:
I really enjoyed your post and I definitely agree with your points. I especially agree with you saying that identity is very important in that without it, culture would not be made. Individuals make up culture, and identity really does give an indication to other people as to how you might be feeling. I can definitely relate to what you said at the end of your post. It is really hard to smile and try to make people think that you're not upset when you are, and this is where self image is shown to be a truly important part of communication.
Self image is very important to communication, but it is also guided by the self-esteem one has. Imagine all the different communication interactions that one may experience. If a person's self-esteem is not up to a healthy standard, than their communication interaction will undoubtedly be very poor. Think about conflict. If your self-esteem is not healthy, than you will simply withdraw or accomodate to much. Your opinion will never be heard regarding any matter, and you will feel isolated. I wonder about the study of communication styles of depressed individuals versus the normal population.
I agree with the previous comment that you brought up a very interesting point that individuals make up culture. The way we view ourselves influences the way we view others. Our identity, in a way, puts the world around us in context. This is part of the why it completely makes sense that people can understand the same things very differently. And this is also why when your self-image changes, whether for better or worse, you can not only see the world differently, but deal with it in a completely different way.
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