Figuring Out the Family (Decision Making Styles)

• In Event: G.I.F.T.S. Session I

Abstract

One common communication systems that a student encounters is the family system. Most have grown up with a “typical” communication style. This activity illustrates the four communication styles (balanced split, unbalanced split, equality and monopoly) (Devito, 2004) and puts the students in a “make shift” family to experience one of the styles in decision making. This will allow the student to experience the communication style and the outcome of each.

Author

• Kristen Ruppert-Leach, Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville