Table :

TABLE 1.1 COMMUNICATION CHARACTERISTICS: ANATOMY OF A COFFEE SALE

Approaching the study of communication through its characteristics will help you evaluate behaviors you encounter in terms of their communicative value. As you can see, the simple coffee sale described in the text is clearly communicative, meeting all six criteria.

Characteristic	Behavior
Communication is symbolic.	Both parties speak English.
Communication requires a shared code.	Both parties understand the meaning of “regular.” Both parties understand the smile and nod greeting.
Communication is linked to culture.	Both parties are New Yorkers.
Communication need not be intentional.	The woman knows the meanings of her words and gestures; they are not ambiguous to the street vendor.
Communication occurs through various channels.	This example uses the spoken word, gestures, and eye contact.
Communication is transactional.	The woman understands the message she is giving, and the man understands the message he is receiving.