The Competent Communication Model
Though the linear and interaction models describe some communication processes, neither captures the complexity of competent communication that we talked about in the preceding section (Wiemann & Backlund, 1980).
To illustrate this complex process, we developed a model of communication that shows effective and appropriate communication (see Figure 1.3). This competent communication model not only includes feedback, but also it shows communication as an ongoing, transactional process: the individuals (or groups or organizations) are interdependent—their actions affect one another—and they exchange irreversible messages.
Figure 1.3: FIGURE 1.3 COMPETENT COMMUNICATION MODEL
In this model, arrows show the links between communication behaviors by representing messages being sent and received. In face-to-face communication, the behaviors of both communicators influence each individual at the same time. For example, Cliff smiles and nods at Jalissa without saying anything as Jalissa talks about the meeting she hosted for her book club. Through these behaviors, Cliff is sending messages of encouragement while receiving her verbal messages. Jalissa sends messages about the book she chose for that week’s discussion, as well as the foods she selected and prepared for the get-together. But she is also receiving messages from Cliff that she interprets as positive interest. Both Cliff and Jalissa are simultaneously encoding (sending) and decoding (receiving) communication behavior.
This transaction changes slightly with different types of communication. For example, in a mediated form of communication—a Facebook posting or texting, for example—the sending and receiving of messages may not be simultaneous. In such cases, the communicators are more likely to take turns, or a delay in time may elapse between messages. In mass media such as TV or radio, feedback may be even more limited and delayed—audience reactions to a TV show are typically gauged only by the Nielsen ratings (how many people watched) or by comments posted by fans on their blogs.
The competent communication model takes into account not only the transactional nature of communication but also the role of communicators themselves—their internal thoughts and influences as well as the various contexts in which they operate. There are four main spheres of influence at play in the competent communication model:
- The communicators. Two individuals are shown here, but many variations are possible: one speaking to an audience of two hundred, six individuals in a group meeting, and so on.
- The relationships among the communicators.
- The situation in which the communication occurs.
- The cultural setting that frames the interaction.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these influences.