Communication is regarded as a continuous process of adjustment. This process can be explained by looking at the recent repeal of the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. This policy restricts the equal rights of homosexuals which has been a topic in heated debate for many years. Over the course of United States history, there have been numerous attempts at equalizing the rights among homosexuals, especially those in the military. As history progressed, the amount of attempts for equality had increased. A final ruling from a judge in 2010 ordered the military to change its policy on homosexual applicants, and allowed them to join. The principle that interpersonal communication is a process of adjustment, shows that individuals and groups must adjust their communication methods towards those of the individuals they are communicating with. The recent repeal of the D.A.D.T. policy is an excellent example of this interpersonal communication principle.
Interpersonal Communication Is a Process of Adjustment
Joseph A. Devito states that interpersonal communication is a process of adjustment. The concept behind this principle is that in order for interpersonal communication to take place, the people that are involved must share the same communication system. To easily understand this, an individual who speaks American Sign Language, will have a difficult time communicating with someone who speaks German. This includes both verbal and non-verbal communication, which can vary across different cultures.
In order for interpersonal communication to function correctly the individuals who are involved in the communication must adjust their methods of communication accordingly. Because of the continuous process of adjustment, the individuals must learn new techniques and ways of communicating so that their communication methods best match the