Communication
What is communication? It is conveying a
thought, idea, or feeling through either verbal or
nonverbal communication.
We communicate in several different ways. We
use verbal and nonverbal communication to
communicate.
Verbal communication - Spoken or written
words
Are texting and email types of verbal
communication?
Nonverbal communication - Sign language,
body gestures, and any body language you use to
show a message
Can the clothing you wear be a type of nonverbal
communication?
Now, many of us have no problems
communicating with others, but sometimes there
are people who have what is called a
communication barrier.
When you think of a barrier, it may help to think
of a wall. A barrier is something that blocks
something else.
Think of the senses we use to communicate sight, touch, and our voices.
What do you think would happen if we lost one of
those senses? It would cause a communication
barrier, so let's discuss some barriers now.
Some people have difficulty speaking
appropriately. This is
called aphasia. Aphasia
means a person has a speech impairment. It may
be difficult to communicate to someone you can't
understand, but here are some pointers:
1. Encourage the person to take his/her time. 2. Encourage them to use hand or body gestures
(Sign language is not an option)
3. Ask the person yes/no questions so it's easy
for them to explain themselves. 4. Repeat what the person has said back to him
or her.
5. Encourage the person to write their message if
they are able.
Some people are unable to hear. This is called
deaf. Some techniques to communicate with a
deaf person might include:
1. Sign language (but what if you don't know it?)
2. Writing a message to them.
2. Writing a message to them.
3. Facing the person while speaking so they can
read your lips.
4. Using body hand and body gestures
Some people are unable to see. This is called
blind. You might communicate with this person
by:
1. Introducing yourself.
2. Explaining loud noises or other things you may
see.
3. Touching the person once you have established
a relationship.
If you can decide which sense the person is
missing, you can easily decide which ways would
be best to communicate with the person. What if
they spoke a different language? What if they are
scared of you?
Now, let's practice communicating using different
barriers!