Purposive Communication 1 - Types of Communication

Vocabulary flashcards created from Purposive Communication 1 notes, covering the 5 primary types of communication, dynamics of verbal and written communication, pillars of nonverbal cues, and Edward T. Hall's proxemic zones.

Intrapersonal Communication

The communication an individual has with themselves, including inner mental monologue, rehearsing speeches, self-reflection, and decision-making.

Interpersonal Communication

Direct 1-on-1 dialogue occurring between two people within the context of an ongoing personal or professional relationship.

Small Group Communication

Interaction among $3$ to $20$ individuals, essential for campus project teams, study circles, sports squads, and organizational committees.

Public Communication

Delivering speeches or written presentations to a live audience larger than a small group, such as campus seminars or rallies.

Mass Communication

Transmitting structured messages to a massive audience via media platforms like podcasts, news outlets, social networks, or TV.

Storytelling

An effective verbal communication form that helps construct common meaning within groups and organizations by clarifying core values and demonstrating real-world problem solving.

Crucial Conversations

High-stakes interactions where emotions run strong and opinions vary, requiring significantly more intentional planning, self-reflection, and emotional skill than everyday casual chats.

Written Communication

Printed and digital messages—including emails, proposals, memos, reports, manuals, and policies—that often occur asynchronously, allowing creators time to construct and edit carefully.

Nonverbal Communication

Communication expressed through facial expressions, body stance, and tone of voice, which effective communicators align with their spoken words.

Kinesics

The study of hand, arm, body, eye contact, and facial movements to analyze how physical motion communicates intent and state of mind.

Haptics

The study of touch in communication, vital for social development and capable of conveying warmth, welcome, persuasion, or aggression.

Proxemics

The study of how people use personal space and how spatial distance dictates relational dynamics.

Edward T. Hall's Zones

A classification of spatial distances into Intimate Space ($0\text{ to }18\text{ inches}$ / $0\text{ to }45\text{ cm}$), Personal Space ($1.5\text{ to }5\text{ feet}$ / $45\text{ to }152\text{ cm}$), and Social Space ($5\text{ to }7+\text{ feet}$ / $1.5\text{ to }2.1\text{ m}$).

Intimate Space

A highly private spatial zone of $0\text{ to }18\text{ inches}$ ($0\text{ to }45\text{ cm}$) reserved for whispering, close friends, or family.

Personal Space

A spatial zone measuring $1.5\text{ to }5\text{ feet}$ ($45\text{ to }152\text{ cm}$) used for casual conversations with friends and classmates.

Social Space

A spatial zone measuring $5\text{ to }7+\text{ feet}$ ($1.5\text{ to }2.1\text{ m}$) used for group interactions, official meetings, and discussions with professors.

Decoding Nonverbal Signals

A breakdown of specific physical behaviors and their implied communication messages across body language, eye contact, facial expressions, and posture.

93% Total Non-Verbal Impact

The principle stating that nonverbal cues carry $93\text{\%}$ of emotional context, causing listeners to believe nonverbal signals whenever spoken words and nonverbals clash.