Psychology of Communication

In line with the general purposes of the degree program in Communication and Society, this course will offer theoretical and methodological tools to understand the psychosocial mechanisms involved in human communication.
Therefore, the main psychological theories aimed at explaining the major functions of communication, the key parts of the communication process, and the effects of the different modes of communication will be introduced. The interplay of the forces that affect the communication dynamics will be analyzed at interpersonal and group levels. It will be discussed the "communication competency model" and students will have the opportunity to get to know and apply some techniques to develop interpersonal skills involved in this competency.

At the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Describing the functions and process of communication.
- Contrasting oral, written and nonverbal communication.
- Explaining why and how specific personal, social and organizational factors affect communication in social contexts and at the workplace.
- Identifying common barriers and biases to effective communication at interpersonal and group levels.
- Understanding how to use some techniques to improve interpersonal and social communication (such as, self-disclosure, assertiveness, listening, persuasion, conflict management, group facilitation).
- Analyzing in a critical perspective the dynamics of communication processes in social contexts.