Interpersonal Communications

9 Pages 2270 Words

late the system but as genuine apprehension. I would do nothing differently in a similar future situation.
Another interpersonal communication principle that I learned and did not realize that it was working within me was the ‘fallacy of perfection’. “People who accept the fallacy of perfection believe that a worthwhile communicator should be able to handle every situation with complete confidence and skill (pg. 165, Adler & Towne, 1999).” In accepting this fallacy I have endured many days of exhaustion. I have been exhausted after communicating because I thought that I had to know everything and have answers to their questions. Under this fallacy of perfection I have also thought that I should be a better person or communicator. In reading Adler & Towne’s book I felt liberated to be imperfect. The authors state fact that “subscribing to the myth of perfection not only can keep others from liking you, but also can act as a force to diminish your own self-esteem (pg. 166).” Now, I communicate more easily and with less psychological energy, knowing that if I do not know something or do not have an answer I will not be less of a person, or incompetent. This has done wonders for times when I must communicate with people all day long, because at the end of the day I have more energy.
Another concept learned in class is, the fallacy of causation. This fallacy basically states that the communicator does not want to be completely truthful for fear of causing adverse emotions in the receiver. Many consequences are the result of a person subscribing to this myth of causation. For example, Adler & Towne (1999) state “A second consequence is that you’re likely to begin resenting the person whose behavior you find bothersome. (pg. 169)” According to this definition I have been guilty in relating to my wife under this myth. In my relating with her I have at tim...