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COMM301

Week 14: The Dark Side of Interpersonal Communication

Week 14 Summary

Week Summary

This week we examined the darker aspects of interpersonal communication - deception, manipulation, and toxic relationship patterns. While difficult to discuss, understanding these dynamics is essential for recognizing and protecting ourselves from harm.

Key Takeaways

  • 1Deception comes in many forms and damages the trust that healthy relationships require
  • 2Manipulation tactics like gaslighting undermine targets' confidence in their own perception
  • 3Toxic jealousy manifests as monitoring, control, and isolation - very different from occasional healthy jealousy
  • 4Red flags include isolation, constant criticism, blame-shifting, and gradual boundary erosion
  • 5If you recognize harmful patterns, trust your perception, seek support, and know that help is available

Coming Up Next Week

Next week, we'll shift focus to your final project development. We'll work on peer review skills, presentation preparation, and integrating the concepts you've learned throughout this course.