Verbal Communication

What Is Language?

Language Has Rules

Language and Culture Are Intertwined

Language Organizes and Classifies Reality

Language Is Arbitrary

Language Is Abstract

How Can Language Be an Enhancement or an Obstacle to Communication?

Grammatical Errors

Colloquialisms

Clichés

Euphemisms

Slang

Profanity

Jargon

Regionalisms

Sexist, Racist, and Heterosexist Language

How Can Language Skills Be Improved?

Avoid Intentional Confusion

Use Descriptiveness

Be Concrete

Differentiate between Observations and Inferences

Demonstrate Cultural Competence

Chapter Review

Summary

Key Terms

References