COMMUNICATION THEORIES

Communication theories

Communication theories

Introduction

Language and linguistics are found in every culture to be distinctive and are thoroughly studied and researched by institutions in order to determine little gestures that are symbolic of something bigger. Body language is more of a physical ability to convey non-verbal messages and is a form of communication that may even be involuntary at times. Eye movements, facial expressions or body postures are usually closely scrutinized in order to realize the mind frame an individual is in. This form of communication is especially studied by students of psychology, or police forces that are trying to pinpoint thieves or other criminals. Entire juries have been conducted on the evidence based around body language. Language is verbal communication and is again a common form of expression in different types, such as poetry, prose, letters or spoken. Language varies from region to region as well as the accents in which it is spoken. When one faces a new culture in which, say, the language spoken is not compatible with oneself, barriers emerge that are likely to cause a lot of distress in one's life. This has led to several communication theories to be erected in order to fully examine the constraints which hinder personal and professional life. In this paper I will be analyzing three of these theories and their use in daily life as well as within an organization.

Discussion

Organizational Culture

Organizational culture can be defined as the set of values and beliefs that are shared within an organization. These values define the organizations identity and thus are likely to become the internal culture. The implicit assumptions held within these values are often so easily incorporated that they are taken for granted. They determine the perceptions of the employees as a group, as well as making a guideline for their implied reactions to various environments. The leaders within an organization and their personal values and organizational goals are somehow reflected in the organizational culture. They're reflected in the way communication hierarchy works, if any. It is also a good way to analyze the leadership style being put to use in the company.

There are several aspects of an organization that may cause an employee to feel stressed. Financial aspects as well as management ones can cause anxiety and panic in employees that may need professional help. Not only does stress affect an employee's job performance, but may have long term implications if not dealt with on time and through appropriate resources. A functional and good organizational culture will make sure there are practices that help employees out who are in these situations, as well as be able to communicate their predicament to managers or higher-ups without hesitance. If organizations are too large for this kind of environment, there are usually counselling setups for the employees use as well, often internal counsellors will help out stressed out employees in solving their work or home related issues free of charge.

Employee Assistance Programs aim to do just that with in-house ...