How do we create meaning? Be sure in your answer to discuss content meaning (denotative and connotative) and relationship meaning. Then provide examples of how meaning might be interpreted

What will be an ideal response?

We create meaning by exchanging symbols (words) and interpreting the symbols based on our understanding of the content of the symbolic meaning and the relationship meaning. Content meaning occurs in two forms, denotative and connotative. Denotative meaning is the dictionary definition of a symbol/word. For example, "home" might be defined literally as a structure in which individuals dwell. The connotative meaning is the meanings we associate with a symbol. So in the case of the word "home" we might associate the connotative meaning of family, security, love, support, etc.

The relationship meaning considers how individuals relate to each other and the nature of their history together. For example, there are parent–child relationships, co-worker relationships, boss relationships, friendships, romantic partnerships, etc. Each of these types of relationships has communication expectations. For example, you might be very offended if a co-worker told you to go make copies for them. In this case, your interpretation of their demand might be that they are acting as if they are of higher status of you and that since you are co-workers that communication is inappropriate. However, if your boss who is of higher status makes the same demand to make copies, you might view this demand as being appropriate and think nothing of the request.