Communicate with Me

Effective Communication

Effective communication is an important attribute to any type of relationship. In order to be effective with communication in any type of relationship the following information should be kept in mind:

It’s how you say it that matters:

Types of Communication

Passive- The speaker doesn’t take an affirmative stance when speaking to another individual. No eye contact is made, a low voice is used, and often times the speaker’s point is lost in the conversation.

Aggressive- The speakers takes an affirmative stance to the extreme. Body Language can be overwhelming and violent and again the speaker’s point is lost because the listener either tunes the speaker out or also becomes aggressive.

Assertive- This is the ideal form of communication which allows the speaker and the listener to express both of their views. Often times a compromise is established and both speakers are comfortable with the outcome

Examples:

Passive Statements: I’m not quite sure what you are saying… I’m just not focusing… something must be wrong with me…

Aggressive Statement: What the *#@! are you saying. You must be stupid if you think anyone understands that #@*!
Assertive

Could you repeat that statement? Thanks

How can you be an effective communicator?

1. Respect others. Be willing to engage and respect all involved in the conversation
2. Listen. Be an active listener. Ask questions if you don’t understand. Repeat what you are told to make sure that you understand what is being said.
3. Think before responding. Take into account what is being said rather than assuming and responding inappropriately
4. Develop an appropriate speaking style and body language. Speak confidently and make eye contact. Many times people look at someone’s body language or reaction rather than listening to what is said.
5. Use “I” statements. When dealing with people, usually they are more receptive when one doesn’t use the word “you” all the time. “You” tends to suggest someone is at falt.
6. Be assertive
7. Recognize and respect different points of view
8. Give praise

Cyber Communication and Safety

As technology advances and becomes one of the main avenues of communication, it is important to protect yourself from becoming a victim of cyberspace.
Here are some helpful websites that can give you some tips about internet safety:
http://www.wiredsafety.org/
http://www.joe.org/joe/2007april/tt1.shtml

Relationships in the Teen World

Relationships play an important role in our daily lives. Once a relationship has been established we take o the responsibility of protecting and maintaining that relationship. Relationships can differ from person to person and can change over time.

We are here to help

• National Crisis Line
• Questioning Youth
• Suicide
• Domestic Violence
• Abuse