“I really messed up with Isaac the other day. I forgot his birthday, and he had been dropping hints that he wanted to do something nice,” says Gerald. Identify the negative behavior that Gerald has engaged in within his relationship with Isaac, and explain some ways that he can make it right.

What will be an ideal response?


Gerald has committed a relational transgression, which necessitates some corrective maintenance. Gerald should first offer an apology to Isaac by expressing remorse, promising to make it up to him, and asking for forgiveness. If he has an account to accompany the apology, he might want to provide it but should not use it as an excuse. Afterward they might want to engage in some meta-communication; they can talk about improving communication within their relationship so similar transgressions don’t happen again.

Communication & Mass Media

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Which of the following things happened in 1994?

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Devyn was the Maid of Honor for her best friend's wedding. At the reception dinner, Devyn began her speech by saying "We are gathered here today to celebrate the marriage of Jeanine and Antonio." Which strategy for gaining the audience's attention did Devyn use?

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Communication & Mass Media