What is a group’s communication structure? What is the difference between a centralized and decentralized communication network? Which is effective when?
A group’s established communication network, the pattern of information sharing in the group.
Centralized communication network
A communication structure in which members must go through a central person to communicate with one another and one member is the principal source and target of communication. Example: all talk through mom
Decentralized communication network
A communication structure in which information flows between members without going through a central person and communication and access to information are more or less equally distributed. Example: the members of the family all talk to each other.
For simple tasks
centralized works.
When tasks are complex and require more extensive information
How is an informal communication network different from the formal communication network? Know how the grapevine is part of the informal network and how gossip can be constructive or destructive to the group.
A layered communication network officially designated by the group or organization.
Grapevines allow
gossip, rumors, and unofficial information to travel through a group. Good for those left out of the formal group. May have information before formal.
Gossip is
communications about other group members that may or may not be factual. Gossip can make us feel like a trusted friend or it can be incorrect and hurt someone. Can contribute to conflict and dropout of members.
What are verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and paralanguage? What is congruent vs. incongruent communication? What guidelines are given in the chapter regarding effective verbal and nonverbal communication?
How do supportive/cooperative and defensive/competitive communication climates differ? Be familiar with Gibb’s six categories of member behaviors that influence whether a climate is supportive or defensive. What suggestions are given for fostering a supportive communication climate?
What are some likely communication challenges in the diverse group? What is an isomorphic attribution? What is intercultural exploration and how can it contribute to better communication in the diverse group? What is the difference between low-context and high-context communication cultures? How can you reduce communication problems in the diverse group?
Likely communication challenges in a diverse group
reduces the frequency and quantity of communication between group members. Miscommunication more probable
Isomorphic attribution
when we interpret the behavior of others in the same way they intended it. Often nonisomorphic when diverse.
Intercultural exploration
A process of sharing cultural assumptions and values that is intended to avert or clarify misunderstandings and misperceptions that arise out of cultural differences.
Low context communication culture
irect and precise communication where value is placed on providing a clear message through words, common individualistic cultures like the US.
High context communication culture
indirect communication where the meaning of messages is conveyed by how something is said rather than what is said, common in collectivistic cultures like Japan.
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