Mixed Messages and Communication

Alright, I realize I've fallen behind on my blog, but I truly want to submit a meaningful entry for each week. So - as I review what i've learned I will share my thoughts with you all for each topic of each week. Thanks to all of you who have taken the time and consideration to read my blog. Let me know if you have any thoughts yourself about what I've said, or the topics discussed, I would love to hear from you! :)

Week 2  Symbolism in Communication and Structure in Family Dynamics...

So, this week I got to learn about all the different ways and reasons why people interact the way they do, as well as understanding better family structure and Dynamics. One of my favorite theories of all that we studied is the Symbolic Interaction Theory. This really hit home for me and I'll tell you why.

This theory is taking into consideration that everything we do or say as we interact with one another has a symbol or some underlying message. I can think of the example of a Mother whispering to her child in a library to show them and send them the message that they need to be quiet. Because we are all from different family cultures and backgrounds, we may have different symbols or associations of messages that we relate to certain actions. This can cause confusion and misunderstandings, among other things.  For example: my teacher washed the dishes for his wife to be kind, but she got upset. The mistaken symbolism was that while he thought he was being thoughtful and kind for his spouse, his wife on the other hand thought that this was his way of stepping up to show her she wasn't fullfilling her roles.

That is a perfect example of confusing the symbolism, or message of someone's actions.

I really liked this because over my life I have interacted with many people, and I believe that clear communication is essential. But if we aren't aware of the possible messages we are sending or receiving, we may be missing a big part of the picture.

So what is my conclusion in how we should act to avoid confusion? I think that whenever we might get offended, or confused, its important to talk it out with the other person. Get it out in the open, so both parties can understand. I mean I dont think most people sit there and think "hmmmm I'm going to ruin your day..." Rather, much of the conflict and confusion that arises in our interactions with one another is from simple miscommunication.

So everyone, lets choose to look at the good, doubt the bad, and when we're doubting, communicate.