Module 3 communications

Terminology

Aphasia

a neurological condition that affects a person’s ability to communicate

Body language

the nonverbal signals, such as movements, expressions, and postures, that a person, whether patient or healthcare provider, uses to communicate thoughts, feelings, and physical or emotional states without words

Defense mechanisms

means to protect oneself when feeling upset or anxious; common mechanisms are denial, projection, and repression

Denial

Refusing to accept or experience a situation

Displacement

the movement of an object or structure from its original position

Dyslexia

a learning disorder that involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words

Dysphasia

a disorder affecting language abilities

Interpersonal

the relationships and interactions between people, most notably the patient, their family, friends, and the healthcare team

Myth

false or unproven beliefs, practices, or theories that have become widely accepted within the medical profession or public, despite lacking scientific evidence

Physiological

the normal functioning of the body's systems and processes

Psychosocial

the interaction between psychological (mental) and social factors that influence a person's health and well-being

Rationalization

explaining an action, decision, or belief with seemingly logical reasons that mask or deny the true, often less flattering, motivation or cause

Regression

when a patient temporarily or permanently reverts to an earlier, less mature stage of development

Repression

when the subconscious brain ignores thoughts or situations to protect oneself

Sublimation

process of channeling unacceptable or difficult impulses and emotions into a positive, socially acceptable outlet. 

Sympathy

an emotional response of pity or sorrow for another person's misfortune, a feeling of care for someone else's trouble or grief

Therapeutic Communication

A way of combining active listening skills and acknowledging the feelings of the sender before responding to the sender