Introduction to Human Communication

Fundamentals of Human Communication

Chapter #2
The Self, Perception & Communication
Claudia Robuck

Fall 2020
Self, Perception & Communication

Communication and the Self

Perceiving Others

Identity Management

Ethnocentrism

Stage Fright
Self, Perception & Communication

Dimensions of Self Concept

Moods and feelings

Social traits and roles

Intelligence

Strong beliefs

Culture

Appearance and physical condition

 Self, Perception & Communication

Self worth is based on self-esteem and self concept

Self concept influences communication with others

Be mindful of self fulfilling prophecies

“The self is a social product arising out of experiences with others” S.

I. Hayakawa
Self, Perception & Communication

Perceptions shape the way we communicate

Influenced by mutually constructed narratives, prior experience,

relationships with others and cultural background
Self, Perception & Communication

Steps in the Perception Process

Selection of data to attend

Organize in meaningful way

Interpretation from individual point of view

Self, Perception & Communication

Interpretations Influences

Degree of involvement

Relationship

Personal Experience

Assumptions about human behavior

Knowledge of others
Self, Perception & Communication

Perceptual Schema Constructs

Role, social position

Interaction and social behavior
Internal states of mind and dispositions
Physical appearance
Self, Perception & Communication

Common Perceptual Tendencies

Snap judgment

Stereotyping

Attention to negative impressions

Clinging to first impressions

Assuming others are like us

Blaming victims
Self, Perception &Communication

Learn to decategorize – regard individually

Mindful of attaching meanings

Stereotyping vs. reasonable generalizations

Easily recognizable vs. insignificant characteristics

 Self, Perception & Communication

Perception checks to handle interpretations

Bridge gaps between conflicting narratives

Steps include description of behavior, advancing two possible

interpretations and request for clarification about how to
interpret the behavior
Self, Perception & Communication

Ethnocentrism
Looking at world from one perspective

Belief that one group superior to others

Judgment of other groups

May lead to contempt of others

 Self, Perception & Communication

Public and Private Selves

Private or perceived self is a reflection of self-concept, what we truly

believe in moments of honest self evaluation

Presenting or public self is the way we want others to see us or the

process of trying to shape their impression
Self, Perception & Communication

Characteristics of Identity Management

Construction of multiple identities

Collaboration with others

Management may/may not be conscious

Degree depends on roles we play

Self, Perception & Communication

Methods of Identity Management

Face to face impression management include manner, appearance and

setting in real time

Computer mediated communication (CMC) such as social networking,

email and text messaging
 Stage Fright

The fear of public speaking, glossophobia, is believed to be the single

most common phobia, affecting as much as 75% of the population.
Stage fright or symptoms of glossophobia include intense anxiety,
avoidance and physical distress.
Stage Fright

Sources of Stage Fright

Previous negative experience

Irrational thinking or fallacies

Catastrophizing

Perfection

Approval

Overgeneralization or exaggeration
 Stage Fright

“The ability to control fear is vital to having a full life. Fear is a fact
(that) signals something might be dangerous. It makes sense. But when
we’re afraid of things that don’t pose a threat, it hold us back from the
life we want.”

Robert Biswas-Diener

The Courage Quotient

Stage Fright

Overcoming Stage Fright

Use nervousness to your advantage

Be rational about your fears

Focus energy on keeping audience engaged

Be prepared, know material

Mindful, not fearful