Two-Way Streets: Disparities in Interpersonal Communication

Communication between two or more people has expanded dramatically. Back in the days, hand-written letters were a regular means of transmitting information between others. It was the norm to wait a week at least for a letter to arrive in the mailbox or P.O. Box.

Nowadays, instant messaging, Skype, FaceTime, texting, emailing, and snapchats have become the means for conversation to flow. People expect to receive a reply within a matter of minutes or at least 24 hours after an initial message. If the receiver fails to reply within a certain time frame, the other party can easily misinterpret this as a sign of ignorance or passive aggressiveness. Of course this is not representative of all parties, but the percent is noticeable.

People have become too comfortable with communication via social networking and non-verbal means of communication. Rather than the old fashioned method of dialing a number or meeting in-person, texting and/or online chatting is the norm. Sole reliance of virtual communication is problematic.

Verbal communication is important and healthy to mental, emotional, and spiritual growth. Closed-off verbal communication can silence a person's ability to express his/herself. Lack of proper verbal communication is problematic and acts as a catalyst for severe social impairment.

Now, think about how this translates to friendships and relationships.

The content of a conversation is another important factor in developing strong and clear communication. If a concern and/or idea is expressed incorrectly, it will face misinterpretation. Non-verbal communication, such as texting or chatting, is a weak means of conveying a person's honest feelings. Words are visible but the emotion that sprouts may go in any direction.

Nonverbal communication places an invisible barrier between two or more people. If it is not utilized properly, it may severely damage interpersonal ties.

Verbal communication needs to occur more often. In-person meetings are more meaningful and heartfelt than sending a text. Attending someone's graduation ceremony is more meaningful than writing on his/her Facebook wall "Congrats!". Calling to say happy birthday is more meaningful than texting those same words.

Although technology and virtual means of communication have advanced the speed of information transmission, it has also put a heavier weight on the sensitive interpersonal ties between two or more people. Verbal communication is vital to any relationship. Lastly, friendships and relationships are two-way streets. Both parties need to put an equal amount of effort to maintain healthy ties. When a one-way street becomes a two-way street, cruising down the road becomes more bearable and makes the view ahead just right.