COMM 277 Week 2 Part 2 – Describing Communication Patterns

Student Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

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Date

Week 2 CCC Template: Part 2 – Describing Communication Patterns

Part 1: Identifying Patterns

Strategic Step 1: Understanding Communication as a Process

My first strategic step is to recognize that communication is a process. I understand that simply telling my brother I cannot watch his daughter and expecting him not to take it personally will not happen after just one conversation. I believe he has developed a certain expectation because he is used to being home and available all the time. This perception must be addressed, and I must also learn how to say no clearly. Whether it’s because I have work or school, I need to communicate that I am busy without causing any misunderstandings. McLean (2018) emphasizes that “communication is a dynamic process, where people come together, mingle, and then part.” This process will help me shift the outcome of our conversations, so that neither my brother nor I leave feeling hurt or upset.

Strategic Step 2: Observing Reactions

Watching my brother’s reactions during the conversation will be another strategic step. By paying attention to his responses when I say no or give a detailed reason, I can learn to communicate more effectively. It will help me show him that I’m not avoiding spending time with my niece, but rather I am simply busy. Learning to communicate in a way that matches his style and observing how he reacts will give me the confidence to express myself without fear of hurting his feelings. Misreading his reactions, however, could negatively impact the conversation, and I would need to adjust accordingly to avoid causing any damage to our relationship.

Strategic Step 3: Remembering Communication is Irreversible

The third strategy involves remembering that communication is irreversible. Once something is said in the heat of an argument, especially when emotions come into play, it can leave a lasting negative impression. My goal is to stay calm and composed when I tell my brother no, even if he reacts emotionally. I must remember that my words cannot be unsaid or taken back, and that they will have consequences. Being aware of this will help me stay grounded, even when my brother may feel that I am not willing to spend time with my niece.

Declarations

Declaration 1: To achieve my goal of understanding communication as a process, I will take my time with each conversation I have with my brother. I will carefully plan my words and the way I begin the conversation to ensure that I express myself clearly and calmly. Rushing into the conversation or allowing my emotions to dictate my response could derail the progress I want to make.

Declaration 2: In order to observe my brother’s reactions, I will focus not only on his words but also on his body language and facial expressions. I will strive to align my communication style with his by mimicking his gestures and emotions. This will ensure that I convey the message that I care about his concerns and that I’m not avoiding helping him. However, if I misread his reactions, it could harm our relationship and hinder the communication process.

Declaration 3: To remember that communication is irreversible, I will work on carefully thinking through my words before speaking. I understand that once I say something, I cannot take it back, and that my words can have long-term effects. This awareness will help me stay calm and collected, ensuring that I communicate in a thoughtful and controlled manner, even when emotions are running high.

Part 2: Plan and Practice

2A. Surroundings

I believe that the best place to have this conversation with my brother would be in my kitchen. Although it may seem like an unusual choice, the kitchen has always been a place where family gathers, laughs, and shares good times. My kitchen has witnessed both conflicts and moments of reconciliation, and it is filled with positive memories. I believe this familiar setting will help create a comfortable and open environment for our conversation.

2B. People

The conversation should ideally be between my brother and me. While his wife or my husband could be present, I would prefer to have this conversation alone with him. I believe that having spouses involved may lead to biases or misunderstandings, which could hinder the communication process. Once I explain to my brother the expectations I have from work, school, and my own family, I’m confident he will understand that my inability to babysit is not personal.

2C. Reflection

My covert rehearsals have helped me form a plan with a clear goal for a positive outcome. They also reminded me that communication is a process, and progress might not be achieved in one conversation. Staying calm and controlling my emotions will allow for better communication over time. Rehearsing the steps I’ve set out will ensure that my brother and I maintain open and effective communication about my availability to babysit in a way that is positive and respectful.

References

McLean, S. (2018). Exploring Interpersonal Communication (2.0 ed.). Boston Academic Publishing.