Communication characteristics make someone a good friend?

  1. 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.
  2. 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?

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.")
Differences:
  • 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.
  1. Challenges of Workplace Romance/Friendship
Unique Challenges:
  • 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.
Advice for Workplace Relationships:
  • 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.
Remember: Company policies on workplace relationships may exist, so always be sure to consult your employee handbook or HR department for guidance.  

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.")