Reflection Assignment 2

Interpersonal Communication

Point Value: 25 Points

Format: Typed, double spaced, 1” margins, normal 12 pt font

Length: 2-3 pages

Assignment: Choose two of the following questions and answer thoroughly. Each question should come from different chapters. Remember you should be writing at English A level or above. I always recommend students take their paper to the Writing Center in the IAC computer lab for review before submitting it to me for evaluation.

1. Identify one relationship in which you feel on-guard and defensive and one relationship in which you feel comfortable and supported. Describe and analyze the communication behaviors in each relationship. To what extent do the defensive and supportive communication behaviors discussed in the text explain the climates of these two relationships? (Chapter 8)

2. In terms of the Johari Window, one way for information to move from the hidden window to the open window is through self-disclosure. However, information can also move from the hidden window to the open window by “outing” someone. With “outing,” another person discloses information they know about a person to others. Describe a situation where you have been “outed,” where you have “outed” anyone, or where you have heard of someone being “outed”? How might it feel to be outed? Reflect on whether “outing” is an ethical form of communication. (Chapter 8)

3. Describe a situation in which you had a conflict with a close friend or romantic partner and you managed to work it out constructively. Analyze what happened by discussing how your behavior and your partner’s followed or violated principles for effective conflict discussed in the text. (Chapter 9)

4. Consider how you deal with conflict in relationships with people at work. Is it similar to how you handle conflict in non-work relationships (or in non-work contexts if you are also a friend/intimate with someone you work with)? In addition to noting any similarities or differences, consider explanations for each. (Chapter 9)