FAQ

What is the difference between talking and communicating?

Talking is the exchange of thoughts or opinions in spoken or sign language. Communication is the successful conveying or sharing of ideas and feeling.

What is interpersonal communication?

The entire process and practice of exchanging ideas, information and even emotional experiences that can occur between two or more people. It is important to note that communication is a process. Communication doesn’t just happen because we want it to.

What is stigma and how does it infect our ability to communicate?

Stigma represents a mark or disgrace that links a person to an undesirable and devalued characteristic. Unfortunately, when we stigmatize people or feel stigmatized by others, communication breaks down. Learning to destigmatize the stigma and bring light to the darkness will harness our ability to communication with others.

What are some factors that affect our ability to communicate?

A few factors that affect communication are: family communication style; judgements, apprehension; and honesty.

Don’t we just have to accept how people talk to us and assume, “that is just how they are?”

No! Words matter. Words generate feelings and emotions in all of us. We are our best selves when we are authentic and genuine in our communication with close others. Moving from talking to communicating is our power.

What is a communication mindset?

The process of thinking about the thoughts or beliefs that drive our mental attitudes that determine how we interpret and respond to, thus communicate with, another person in response to events, circumstances, and situations we encounter.

What are three ways to work toward developing a communication mindset?

Be aware of perceptions, ask questions, and repeat what you heard.

What are the three factors that feed how we interpret the meaning of what is said to us?

Literal meaning of what is said, the perceived meaning of what is said, and the intended meaning of what is said.

What are external roadblocks to effective communication?

Social influence, family dynamics, and power

What are three things to consider when evaluating whether we have earned the right to initiate a conversation with a close friend or family member about a taboo topic?

Length of time in the relationship, degree of intimacy/closeness of the relationship, and trust within the relationship.