Communication theory

Communication Theory

Communication theory (/kəˌmjuːnɪˈkeɪʃən θɪəri/) is an interdisciplinary academic field that focuses on the description, analysis, and understanding of communication processes.

Etymology

The term "communication" comes from the Latin communicare, which means "to share". The word "theory" is derived from the Greek theoria, meaning "a looking at, viewing, beholding".

Definition

Communication theory encompasses a wide range of topics, including interpersonal communication, mass communication, organizational communication, intercultural communication, and more. It involves the systematic and scientific study of how communication occurs and the effects of communication on people and society.

Key Concepts

Sender

The sender is the individual or group who initiates the communication process by creating and transmitting a message.

Receiver

The receiver is the individual or group for whom the message is intended. They interpret the message based on their own experiences and perceptions.

Message

The message is the information or ideas that are being communicated. It can be verbal or non-verbal, and can be transmitted through various channels.

Channel

The channel is the medium through which the message is transmitted. This can include spoken words, written text, body language, and more.

Noise

Noise refers to any interference that distorts or disrupts the message. This can be physical noise, such as loud sounds, or psychological noise, such as stress or distractions.

Feedback

Feedback is the response from the receiver to the sender. It provides the sender with information about how the message was received and interpreted.

Related Terms

• Encoding: The process of converting thoughts into a form that can be communicated.
• Decoding: The process of interpreting the communicated message.
• Context: The circumstances or setting in which communication takes place.
• Semiotics: The study of signs and symbols as elements of communicative behavior.

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