Discuss the three primary components to consider in a definition for interpersonal communication and provide examples as support

What will be an ideal response?

Interpersonal communication is interaction that occurs between (1) interdependent parties, (2) exists on a continuum, and (3) is inherently relational. First, the term interdependent parties suggests that one person's behavior affects or influences the other. Interdependence can occur across a wide range of relationship types (e.g., parents, doctors, store clerks, etc.), but in each case one person's behavior affects the other person. For example, a student has an interdependent relationship with an instructor because the student depends on the instructor for information and the instructor depends on the student as part of his/her professional work and identity.

Interpersonal communication also exists on a continuum. Not all interpersonal relationships hold equal value or serve the same purpose. For example, a student might depend heavily on his parents for advice and guidance, emotional support, and a sense of belonging. The same student might rely on a grocery store clerk to help in the transaction of purchasing groceries. In both cases interpersonal communication is involved, but different types of communication behavior are appropriate. Role relationship is a term that refers to relationships that exist only in the context of the roles individuals play for one another (e.g., waiter/diner, clerk/customer, and doctor/patient).

Finally, interpersonal communication is inherently relational. Differences in the types of relationships influence how communication behavior is deemed as appropriate. Also, communication creates and defines relationships. For example, acquaintances who meet in a class might become close friends as their communication patterns increase in breadth and depth over time. Therefore, initial minimal communication defines them as acquaintances and developed breadth and depth in communication changes the relationship definition to a close friendship.