Introduction

In this study session you will learn about some of the different methods of communication and how you can use them in your work within your community. Communication is often described in three different ways: intrapersonal, interpersonal and mass communication — and this study session will help you understand how each of these types of communication can be used to help people and improve their health.

Intrapersonal communication describes those methods of communication which take place within a single person — essentially it is the thoughts and ‘talking’ you do inside your head. Interpersonal communication is the type of communication that involves direct interaction between two or more people or within groups. In contrast, mass communication is a means of transmitting messages to a large number of people usually using electronic or print media.

During this study session you will also learn about other interesting forms of getting your message across. These will include verbal and non-verbal forms of communication. You will also learn how to use your non-verbal skills for effective communication during your health work. Finally, you will learn a variety of different approaches, barriers and characteristics of effective health communication in health education that will help you in your work.