Click on the following links. Please note these will open in a new window.

Video Links

Connect or Die: The Surprising Power of Human Relationships—Dr. Starla Fitch—TEDxFargo

Description: Chapter 1 introduces you to the concept of interpersonal communication and interpersonal relationships. Dr. Fitch discusses her relationships with her patients using the metaphor of the “cataracts,” which interfere with our ability to see our relationships clearly. How can developing human relationships empower you to connect deeply with other people? She argues that we can choose to either connect or die, do you agree or disagree with her argument?

Interpersonal Communication in the Future World—Celine Fitzgerald—TEDxCarletonUniversity

Description: In this TED video, Celine Fitzgerald discusses interpersonal communication and the implications of what happens when face-to-face nonverbal cues are missing in computer-mediated contexts. How can socializing online with limited nonverbal cues make someone feel lonely and stressed?

Pink and Blue: Communicating Gender to Children—Anthony Schullo—TEDxNorthCentralCollege

Description: Chapter 1 defines gender as one of the characteristics of relationships. Anthony Schullo discusses how parents communicate gender to their young children.

Subtle but Powerful: The Relationship Level of Meaning

Description: In this video, Dr. Glaser distinguishes the difference between the content and relational level of meaning. From your perspective, is it easier to decipher the content or the relational level of meaning in relationships?

One Cannot Not Communicate—What Does Your Message Say About You

Description: One of the interpersonal communication principles states that “one cannot not communicate” and this reflects on how we are always being perceived by others by our mere presence.

Travel New York: People Watching

Description: Communication is inevitable. Have you ever engaged in “people watching” around town? In this video, Sonia practices “people watching” in New York City. How does the “one cannot not communicate in face-to-face settings” apply to this video?

Audio Links

A Romance that Began with a Mistake

Description: In Chapter 1, you learned about the three types of relational goals. Listen to this romance story and identify Bill’s relational goal(s) after discovering the mistake that occurred at the bank.

‘End of Men’ Heralds New Era of Female Dominance

Description: One of the fundamental themes of relational communication includes dominance and submission. In this book review, Hanna Rosin explains how some people may feel uncomfortable with “female power.” Does equalizing men and women in politics and the workplace correspond with equalizing men and women in relationships?

Researchers Study Consequences of Work-Based Friendships

Description: In this NPR interview, research on work-based friendships are discussed. Are work-based friendships voluntary or involuntary? What are the benefits and disadvantages of having friends at work?

Single by choice: Why fewer American women are married than ever before

Description: In Box 1.3 of chapter 1, we learn that the cultural expectations of marriage are shifting in the U.S. and Asia. After listening to this audio clip, think about why women might be delaying marriage in the U.S. Also, think about how the trend of delaying marriage might impact the values and expectations of positive relational communication.

Web Links:

Importance of Interpersonal Communication Skills

Description: Why are interpersonal communication skills important? Why is it important for you to study interpersonal communication in human relationships?

International Association Relationship Research

Description: In Chapter 1 you learned that the field of personal relationships is growing. Visit the International Association Relationship Research (IARR) website and investigate a variety of interpersonal communication organizational websites to learn more about the influence of interpersonal communication research.

Interpersonal Communication Skills Test

Description: Are you interested in assessing your own interpersonal communication skills? Take this short test to determine your interpersonal communication strengths and weaknesses.

Exploring Nonverbal Communication

Description: In this chapter, you learned that interpersonal communication includes both verbal and nonverbal communication. Explore the following nonverbal communication website and take the assessments on each of the nonverbal codes.