24 Part 1 Basic Communication ProcessesA relational history is the sum of the shared experiences of the individuals
involved in the relationship. References to this common history (such as inside
jokes) can be important in defining a relationship, because such references indi-
cate to you, your partner, and others that there is something special about this
bond. Your relational history may also affect what is appropriate in a particular
circumstance. For example, you may give advice to a sibling or close friend
without worrying about politeness, but you might be careful with someone you
haven’t known for very long. Relational history can complicate matters whenTHE MEANING of a
kiss changes depending on
the context. A kiss between
mother and child doesn’t
have the same meaning as
a kiss between romantic
partners. (left) © Mango Productions/
Corbis; (right) © Robert Fried/Alamy
THINK
ABOUT
THIS❶ What relational,
situational, and cultural
factors are involved in this
ethical communication
dilemma?
❷ Is Cameron fully
responsible for properly
decoding these contex-
tual cues? Do you have a
responsibility here as well?
Explain your answers.
❸ How might you
construct a competent
and ethical response to
Cameron to help make
him aware of your frustra-
tions without insulting or
alienating him?Friends with Money
You know that students at your large state school come from all kinds of
backgrounds and circumstances. You also know that you have it easier than
some and you try not to resent those who seem to have it easier than you.
But your new roommate, Cameron, is beginning to frustrate you. Although
you both think of yourselves as “ordinary middle-class guys,” it’s becoming
clear that he comes from a more privileged background than do you. While
you are taking out loans, along with help from your parents, to pay your tu-
ition, Cameron’s tuition is paid in full up front. And he is the only one of your
friends who doesn’t have a part-time job during the school year; his parents
supply him with spending money on a regular basis.
He’s a really nice guy, and you share a lot of the same interests, but he
continues to suggest excursions—such as eating out or going to concerts—
that you just can’t afford. When he notes that your favorite band is playing the
local arena next weekend and that tickets are “only $75,” you feel jealous and
angry that he could be so clueless. What do you do?EVALUATINGCOMMUNICATIONETHICS