Therapeutic Comm Q 31
Which of the following individuals are communicating a message? Select all that apply.
A. A mother spanking her son for playing with matches
B. A teenage boy isolating himself and playing loud music
C. A biker sporting an eagle tattoo on his biceps
D. A teenage girl writing, "No one understands me."
E. A father checking for new e-mail on a regular basis
Correct Answer: A, B, C, and D.
The nurse should determine that spanking, isolating, getting tattoos, and writing are all ways in which people communicate messages to others. It is estimated that about 70% to 90% of communication is nonverbal. It is the act of conveying meanings from one body or group to another through the use of mutually understood signs, symbols, and semiotic rules.
Option A: Nonverbal communication involves the transmission of messages without the use of words. It involves facial expression, posture, touch, gestures, physical appearance, eye contact, and other body movements. These are considered more accurate expressions of true feelings. Gestures impart meanings that are more powerful than words.
Option B: Listening is the ability to accurately receive and interpret messages in the communication process. (e.g., radio, audio conferencing). Various modes or mediums to transmit and receive the information are referred to as “communication channels.”
Option C: Sight is the process, power, or function of seeing (e.g.., the sights of the newly-built hospital). Physical appearance or artifacts involves items in the client’s environment such as grooming or the use of clothing and jewelry. They may convey nonverbal messages that might enhance or hinder the real message of the spoken words.
Option D: Reading refers to the complex cognitive process of decoding symbols involving word recognition, comprehension, fluency, and motivation (e.g., written letters, memos, chats, and messaging).
Option E: Communication is the process of sharing information or the process of generating and transmitting meanings. The father checking for new emails on a regular basis lacks some of the elements of communication, such as the stimulus, receiver, and channel.