The Role Of Intrapersonal Communication In The Process Of Forming Self -concepts And The Behavior Of Students Of Communication Science University Of North Sumatra

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The Role of Intrapersonal Communication in Forming Self-Concepts and the Behavior of Students of Communication Science at the University of North Sumatra

Introduction

Intrapersonal communication plays a vital role in shaping an individual's self-concept and behavior. This concept is particularly relevant in the context of communication science students at the University of North Sumatra (USU), where effective communication skills are essential for academic and professional success. This research aims to explore the importance of intrapersonal communication in forming self-concepts and the behavior of communication science students at USU.

Theoretical Background

The theory that underlies this research is intrapersonal communication theory, self-concept theory, role theory, and behavior theory. Intrapersonal communication theory posits that individuals communicate with themselves through internal dialogue, which influences their self-concept and behavior. Self-concept theory suggests that an individual's self-concept is shaped by their experiences, values, and goals. Role theory emphasizes the importance of social roles in shaping an individual's behavior, while behavior theory highlights the significance of behavior in achieving goals and maintaining self-concept.

Methodology

This study employed qualitative methods to understand the phenomena that occur in depth. The research involved four USU FISIP Communication Science students from the class of 2015, 2016, and 2017, who were chosen intentionally based on the objectives and research needs. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, literature studies, and observations. Qualitative data analysis was used to reduce, present, and conclude data obtained from the interview.

Results

The results of this study showed a strong correlation between good intrapersonal communication and self-concept and positive behavior. Students who have good intrapersonal communication tend to have a positive self-concept and good behavior. Conversely, students with poor intrapersonal communication tend to have a self-concept and bad behavior. This finding underlines the importance of intrapersonal communication in the formation of a person's identity.

The Role of Intrapersonal Communication in Shaping Self-Concepts and Behavior

Intrapersonal communication plays a crucial role in shaping self-concepts and behavior. Through intrapersonal communication, students can reflect on their experiences, evaluate themselves, and form perceptions about themselves. This process helps them understand their values, goals, and potential, which ultimately forms self-concept. Intrapersonal communication also allows students to plan and manage their actions, consider the consequences of their choices, and choose behaviors that are in accordance with their values and goals.

Forming Self-Concept

Forming self-concept is a critical aspect of intrapersonal communication. Through intrapersonal communication, students can:

  • Reflect on their experiences and evaluate themselves
  • Form perceptions about themselves and their abilities
  • Understand their values, goals, and potential
  • Develop a positive or negative self-concept

Forming Behavior

Intrapersonal communication also plays a significant role in forming behavior. Through intrapersonal communication, students can:

  • Plan and manage their actions
  • Consider the consequences of their choices
  • Choose behaviors that are in accordance with their values and goals
  • Develop effective communication skills and become responsible communicators

Conclusion

The importance of intrapersonal communication in shaping self-concepts and behavior cannot be ignored. Communication science students, in particular, need to have strong intrapersonal communication to help them understand the complexity of communication, develop effective communication skills, and become responsible communicators. This research provides valuable insights for lecturers, students, and communication practitioners in understanding the importance of intrapersonal communication as a foundation for building self-concept and positive behavior.

Implications for Practice

The findings of this study have several implications for practice:

  • Lecturers should emphasize the importance of intrapersonal communication in their teaching practices.
  • Students should develop strong intrapersonal communication skills to enhance their self-concept and behavior.
  • Communication practitioners should recognize the significance of intrapersonal communication in shaping self-concept and behavior.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations:

  • The sample size was small, and the results may not be generalizable to other populations.
  • The study relied on qualitative methods, which may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena.
  • The study did not explore the role of cultural and social factors in shaping intrapersonal communication.

Future Research Directions

Future research should:

  • Explore the role of cultural and social factors in shaping intrapersonal communication.
  • Investigate the relationship between intrapersonal communication and other aspects of communication, such as interpersonal communication and mass communication.
  • Develop interventions to enhance intrapersonal communication skills in students and communication practitioners.
    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Intrapersonal Communication and Self-Concept

Q: What is intrapersonal communication?

A: Intrapersonal communication refers to the process of communicating with oneself through internal dialogue, thoughts, and feelings. It involves reflecting on one's experiences, evaluating oneself, and forming perceptions about oneself.

Q: Why is intrapersonal communication important?

A: Intrapersonal communication is essential for shaping self-concept and behavior. It helps individuals understand their values, goals, and potential, which ultimately forms their self-concept. Effective intrapersonal communication also enables individuals to plan and manage their actions, consider the consequences of their choices, and choose behaviors that are in accordance with their values and goals.

Q: How does intrapersonal communication influence self-concept?

A: Intrapersonal communication influences self-concept by:

  • Reflecting on experiences and evaluating oneself
  • Forming perceptions about oneself and their abilities
  • Understanding values, goals, and potential
  • Developing a positive or negative self-concept

Q: What are the benefits of good intrapersonal communication?

A: Good intrapersonal communication has several benefits, including:

  • Positive self-concept
  • Good behavior
  • Effective communication skills
  • Responsible communication
  • Ability to plan and manage actions
  • Consideration of consequences of choices

Q: What are the consequences of poor intrapersonal communication?

A: Poor intrapersonal communication can lead to:

  • Negative self-concept
  • Bad behavior
  • Poor communication skills
  • Irresponsible communication
  • Difficulty planning and managing actions
  • Failure to consider consequences of choices

Q: How can individuals improve their intrapersonal communication skills?

A: Individuals can improve their intrapersonal communication skills by:

  • Practicing self-reflection and self-evaluation
  • Engaging in internal dialogue and thinking critically
  • Developing a positive and realistic self-concept
  • Setting goals and working towards them
  • Seeking feedback from others and using it to improve

Q: What role does culture play in shaping intrapersonal communication?

A: Culture plays a significant role in shaping intrapersonal communication. Cultural values, norms, and expectations can influence how individuals communicate with themselves and others. For example, some cultures may emphasize collectivism over individualism, which can impact how individuals form their self-concept and behavior.

Q: Can intrapersonal communication be taught or learned?

A: Yes, intrapersonal communication can be taught or learned. Individuals can develop their intrapersonal communication skills through practice, training, and experience. Educators, coaches, and mentors can also play a role in helping individuals develop their intrapersonal communication skills.

Q: What are the implications of this research for education and practice?

A: The findings of this research have several implications for education and practice, including:

  • Emphasizing the importance of intrapersonal communication in teaching practices
  • Developing interventions to enhance intrapersonal communication skills in students and communication practitioners
  • Recognizing the significance of intrapersonal communication in shaping self-concept and behavior

Q: What are the limitations of this research?

A: This research has several limitations, including:

  • Small sample size
  • Qualitative methods
  • Limited generalizability
  • Failure to explore the role of cultural and social factors in shaping intrapersonal communication

Q: What are the future research directions for this topic?

A: Future research should:

  • Explore the role of cultural and social factors in shaping intrapersonal communication
  • Investigate the relationship between intrapersonal communication and other aspects of communication, such as interpersonal communication and mass communication
  • Develop interventions to enhance intrapersonal communication skills in students and communication practitioners