Overview: Introduction to communication in criminology, presented by Cherry Ann Marie Espelita, MBA.
Define communication and its purpose.
Understand communication models and processes.
Recognize the importance of communication in criminology.
Definition: The process of transmitting information, ideas, emotions, and meanings between individuals or groups.
Key Elements:
Sender: The originator of the message.
Message: The information being conveyed.
Medium: The method of communication (e.g., verbal, written).
Receiver: The individual or group receiving the message.
Feedback: The response from the receiver to the sender.
Connection: Helps people connect and build relationships.
Understanding: Aids in comprehending others, resolving conflicts, and collaborating towards common goals.
Benefits:
Improved understanding
Enhanced collaboration
Effective problem-solving
Stronger relationships
Example: A criminologist collaborating with forensic experts to analyze evidence.
Inform: Writing detailed incident reports.
Persuade: Presenting evidence convincingly in court.
Express Emotions: Building empathy during victim interviews.
Elements:
Sender
Message
Encoding
Noise
Feedback
Media
Decoding
Receiver
Example: Noise during an interrogation could include distractions or the suspect's stress.
Linear Model: One-way communication without feedback (e.g., police radio announcements).
Interactive Model: Two-way communication with feedback (e.g., email correspondence between police departments).
Transactional Model: Simultaneous sending and receiving of messages (e.g., face-to-face discussions).
Verbal Communication: Spoken words (e.g., direct interviews with suspects).
Nonverbal Communication: Actions and expressions conveying meaning (e.g., interpreting body language during interrogations).
Written Communication: Documenting affidavits and reports.
Physical Barriers: Noise in crowded crime scenes.
Psychological Barriers: Stress during intercations.
Cultural Barriers: Language differences with foreign suspects.
Key Areas:
Interviewing witnesses.
Writing accurate reports.
Collaborating with legal teams.
Presenting findings in court.
Example: Effective questioning techniques to uncover a suspect’s alibi.
Communication is fundamental to criminology.
Understanding models and processes enhances the effectiveness of communication.
Overcoming communication barriers is essential for maintaining accuracy and clarity.