- What communication characteristics make someone a good friend? Compare and contrast an academic understanding of friendship communication and scriptural understanding of friendship communication. Are there similar topics or virtues addressed in both? Explain.
- What are unique challenges that you might face in developing a workplace romance or friendship? What are some important pieces of advice you might give someone wanting to develop a workplace romance or friendship based on your class readings/research?
Communication characteristics make someone a good friend?
Full Answer Section
- Respect and Kindness:Treating each other with respect, even during disagreements, and offering kindness and compassion. (Philippians 2:3-4 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but to the interests of others.")
- Supportiveness and Encouragement:Being there for a friend through good times and bad, offering encouragement and motivation. (Proverbs 17:17 "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.")
- Reliability and Dependability:Knowing you can count on your friend to be there for you when needed. (Ecclesiastes 4:9 "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.")
- Academic Focus:Academic research might delve deeper into specific communication skills like conflict resolution or nonverbal communication for effective friendship communication.
- Scriptural Emphasis:Scriptural perspectives might emphasize faith-based values like forgiveness, patience, and love as cornerstones of strong friendships.
- Examples:Academic studies might cite research on communication styles, while scriptures might use parables or stories to illustrate friendship principles.
- Challenges of Workplace Romance/Friendship
- Professionalism:Maintaining a professional demeanor and avoiding favoritism or bias in the workplace.
- Confidentiality:Keeping work matters confidential while navigating personal boundaries.
- Power Dynamics:Unequal power structures between colleagues or supervisors can complicate relationships.
- Gossip and Rumors:Workplace romances or close friendships can be subject to gossip or speculation.
- Breakup Impact:Breakups or conflicts can create a tense work environment.
- Clear Boundaries:Establish clear boundaries between friendship/romance and professional interactions.
- Transparency:If pursuing a relationship, be transparent with superiors per company policies (if any).
- Professional Conduct:Maintain professionalism regardless of the relationship status.
- Discretion:Be discreet about personal details and avoid public displays of affection.
- Consider Alternatives:Consider if the potential downsides outweigh the benefits, and explore friendships outside work.
- Exit Strategy:If things don't work out, have a plan to maintain professionalism in case of a breakup.
Sample Answer
1. Communication Characteristics of a Good Friend: Academic vs. Scriptural Perspectives
Similarities:
Both academic and scriptural perspectives emphasize several key communication characteristics for strong friendships:
- Honesty and Trustworthiness: Open communication, truthfulness, and the ability to confide in one another are essential. (Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.")
- Empathy and Active Listening: Understanding a friend's feelings, perspectives, and experiences through attentive listening and emotional support. (James 1:19 "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger.")