P2 –Discuss Theories of Communication
Gerard Egan
Gerard Egan explored areas of interpersonal interactions based on the assumption that people act in certain way due to their perception of a given situation. While behaviour is obvious, a person's thoughts and feelings are not as obvious. Gerard Egan wrote his own book named 'The Skilled Helper'. The book recommends that people and it also helps to improve your communication skills when put in a situation with others. This acronym is SOLER. use an acronym to help assess other people’s communication
The S stands for sitting squarely – It is important to do this when you are interacting with an individual because you can look directly at them and it shows them that you are listening and are interested in what they have to say.
The O stands for open posture – It is important to have open body posture when you are interacting with an individual. This means not sitting or standing up with your arms folded across your chest as this can give off signals that you are defensive or are anxious. Having an open posture makes the individual feel more welcome and comfortable to share their problems/concerns.
The L stands for leaning forward when necessary - It is important that you lean forwards when necessary when communicating to an individual because it shows them that you are interested in what they are talking about and that you are listening. It may be possible that the person may be sharing personal issues so they may speak in a lower or quieter tone of voice. In addition you may also speak to them in a softer/quieter tone so that they feel more encouraged to share their issues.
The E stands for eye contact – Eye contact is important as this shows that you are interested in what the person is talking about. You can also develop a sense of the persons emotional state by making eye contact so it gives you an idea of how