Communication is the process of which individuals use symbols, signs, and behaviors to exchange information (O'Hair & Weimann, 2009). We use communication to begin, maintain, and end relationships. The interactive relationships that I have developed in my life consist of family, friends, and colleagues. Each of these relationships are important but different in how I use communication exchanges. Naturally my family and most of my friends share similarities of cultural aspects, i.e. race, religion, marital status, and interest, and lifestyle. In my work place I interact with a much more culturally diverse group, and I must be mindful of this factor which influences communication. One such factor is the diversity amongst my self, clients, and other employees. Diversity can create potential misunderstandings or conflict stemming from the way we each individually make sense out of the world (Beebe, Beebe, & Redmond, 2011). I believe that I do find my self communicating differently in the work environment because of the variations in age, gender, sexual orientation , ethnicity, and intellectual ability. This is partly because I have learned to adapt to others and the environment according to the context of the relationship. For example when speaking with my clients who are developmentally disabled, I make sure I use appropriate language that meets their level of comprehension. At times I may also rely on pictures when communicating with an individual who is non verbal. Another example of adaptive communication in the work place is the way I communicate with other colleagues. I have closer relationships with some of my colleagues opposed to others. I find that when communicating with those I am closer to, I may share my personal opinion of topic that is non therapeutic and based on my background and upbringing. However, when communicating with a colleague who I do not have a close personal relationship with I generally give input based on therapeutic practices and what is generally acceptable to say in the situation. I believe this is because there are different levels of comfort. Those I am closer to, I automatically know that they understand and accept me so I am comfortable displaying my self. Those I am not close to, I do not want to judge me out side of my professional abilities.
Beebe, S. A., Beebe, S. J., & Redmond, M. V. (2011). Interpersonal communication: Relating to others (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Chapter 4, "Interpersonal Communication and Diversity: Adapting to Others" (pp. 85–114)Copyright 2011 by Allyn & Bacon, Inc. Reprinted by permission of Allyn & Bacon, Inc., via the Copyright Clearance Center.
