Affectionate Communication In The Hospital And Sam's Graduation Party

In everyday life, there are numerous examples of affectionate and supportive communication. This is no more evident than in the video segments. In this paper, the concept under discussion is affectionate and supportive communication will be analyzed with regards to the video segments, “The Hospital” and “Sam’s Graduation Party.” The behaviors of affectionate and supportive communication were used effectively in the video segment called “The Hospital” because Susan listened effectively, gave appropriate nonverbal feedback, and did not yell at her mother. The behaviors of affectionate and supportive communication were not used effectively in the video segment called “Sam’s Graduation Party” because Sam sent inappropriate nonverbal messages
towards his former senior advisor, Doctor Stern.
Theoretical Perspective
The definition of affection is “the holding of fond or tender feelings toward another person” (Pearson, Nelson, Titsworth, Harter, 2003, p.191).
Affection may be expressed by such verbal messages as “I love you” or “I care for you.” Affection may also expressed by such nonverbal messages as a kiss, a hug, or a caress. “The importance of affection in human social interaction has been heralded for some time. For example, Rotter, Chance, and Phares (1972) referred to ‘love and affection’ as one of six fundamental human needs. Frank (1973) and Koch (1959) both stressed the importance of affection and warmth in therapeutic interventions” (Floyd, 1997, p.68).
Affectionate communication is not one hundred percent certain. Various things state whether or not specific affection is appropriate. “Affectionate behaviors may not always be interpreted by receivers in the way they are intended by sender. Much risk in expressing affection is due to its ambiguous nature. A hug, a wink, or a kiss on the cheek can be intended to express many things, including platonic love, romantic interest, appreciation, and social support” (Floyd and Morman, 2000, p. 287). It is up to the sender to make sure that the receiver is sure which message that they are
sending.
Supportive communication is also important. It goes hand in hand with affectionate communication. “Support may include giving advice, expressing concern, and offering assistance” (Pearson, Nelson, Titsworth, Harter, 2003, p.191). Unlike affectionate communication, it is hard to receive the wrong message from supportive communication. In peril, supportive communication may calm the receiver down allowing them to think rationally. This communication maybe comforting messages such as “suggesting a diversion, offering assistance, and expressing optimism” (Pearson, Nelson, Titsworth, Harter, 2003, p.192).
Analysis
The video segment, “The Hospital,” has several examples of effective affectionate and supportive communication. During this segment, Susan repeatedly communicated nonverbal affection and support to her mother by giving her a hug, rubbing her shoulder and holding her hand. Susan gave her mother verbal affection and support by saying “I’ll help you through this Mom, I promise” and “I am here now.” In the video segment, “Sam’s Graduation Party,” there were also several examples of ineffective affectionate communication. Sam made his former senior advisor, Dr. Stern, uncomfortable. One way was the big hug he gave her when she walked in the door. He also made her feel uncomfortable when he grabs her by her shoulders, looks her in the eyes, and said “How can I ever thank you?” It is evident that Dr. Stern feels uncomfortable based on her facial expressions.