In chapter two I learned about several different concepts and how they effect small group communication. We talked about a few in this week’s discussion, but one that was not mentioned, that I find important is “irreversibility.” This concept basically means that once you say something, you cannot take it back. “What is said may contribute to the effectiveness or the deterioration of the group process.” (Harris/Sherblom 38) This is so true in all aspects your communication experiences in life. In small group communication specifically, if you speak positive and uplift the group, they will trust and think highly of you. However if you say something detrimental (whether you apologize or not) your group will potentially always remember what you said. Irreversibility is basically a term that warns us to think before we speak. We should not let our emotions impact our responses because one something is said there is really no way to start over. Therefore when is comes to irreversibility, we should remember to speak positively and in a way that we know we will not regret.
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Pocahontas,
ReplyDeleteThe concept of irreversibility is a great concept. You give a good example when you mention that your group may always remember the negative aspect even if you apologize. This is important when trying to establish leadership. If the leader comes of in a negative manner, then the group will have trouble following the direction he/she gives. We really should think before we speak, because the impact can be massive in a group atmosphere. This concept reminds me of the saying" there's only one first impression." No matter what you do, people will always remember the first impression. You cannot take it back, but maybe improve it. But chances are they will not forget. Do you have any examples of when this has happened, or tips to maybe correct it?
Great job!
Henry
Irreversibility explains itself clearly, its utterly irreversible to take something back that you've already said or done. I like your example about the positive part of irreversibility. "If you speak positive and uplift the group, they will trust and think highly of you." I thought that was good statement because it shows that if you do good deeds or say nice things, people will recognize this and respect you. I compare this to karma. I believe that if you do bad things, bad things will happen to you and vice versa. I'm not going to get religious, but I believe that things happen for a reason.
ReplyDeletePocahantas-
ReplyDeleteIf I had to choose another concept in chapter two, it definitely would have been Irreversibility. I am preparing for marriage this fall and in my pre-marriage class, irreversibility is a concept that we just learned. I learned that if I ever mention that I may want a divorce, surely it will effect the entire marriage...despite the years. I agree that in every area, especially in small groups, if we speak in a positive manner, then we will gain the trust of the group. And its quite the contrary in the negative tone. Great topic of choice either way!