Difference Between Intrapersonal And Interpersonal Communication

What Is Intrapersonal Communication?  

Intrapersonal communication is the communication done with oneself and it includes the thoughts, assessments, contemplations, and feelings that are associated with one’s inner communication. It is an activity that takes place in our mind; wherein a person is involved in a conversation with himself/herself, commonly known as ‘self-talk’ or ‘inner speech’. The activity can be a monologue or internal dialogue, i.e. when you imagine a conversation, in your mind with the absent other. So, it is quite obvious that the sender and receiver are the same person.

Characteristics of Intrapersonal Communication

• Intrapersonal communication is a person’s inner dialogue i.e communication that occurs in our mind.
• In intrapersonal communication, only an individual’s internal senses are involved.
• It occurs during thinking and analysis of situations.
• Intrapersonal communication is communication within oneself and therefore it involves one person.
• It involves critical thinking, analysis and evaluation.
• It is invisible in nature as it only involves an individual’s personal thoughts and feelings.
• Information never goes beyond a person’s mind. The information is intended only for the person who is producing it.
• Self awareness and interpretation of thoughts are important in intrapersonal communication.
• There is only individual feedback.
• Intrapersonal communication is a continuous form of communication that occurs every time a person is engaging his mind.

What Is Interpersonal Communication?

Interpersonal communication is the process of exchange of information, ideas and feelings between two or more people through verbal or non-verbal methods. It often includes face-to-face exchange of information, in a form of voice, facial expressions, body language and gestures. Although interpersonal communication is most often between pairs of individuals, it can also be extended to include small intimate groups such as the family. Interpersonal communication can take place in face-to-face settings, as well as through platforms such as social media.

Characteristics of Interpersonal Communication 

• Interpersonal communication is the exchange of information between two or more people.
• It requires verbal and non-verbal media to express ideas. Non-verbal Interpersonal skills include: Gestures, Eye-contact, body language etc.
• Interpersonal communication is concerned with exchange of ideas, information, opinions, feelings etc.
• It occurs during meetings and daily conversations with peers.
• It involves exchange of ideas, opinions and experiences and therefore it involves two people or public settings of three or more people.
• It is visible in nature.
• Information flows from one person to another.
• Good communication skills are important in interpersonal communication.
• There is feedback from the parties involved.
• Interpersonal communication occurs regularly since human beings routinely interact with one another.

Difference Between Intrapersonal And Interpersonal Communication In Tabular Form