IB Psychology SL 3.3.9 Communication Questions
Practise IB Psychology SL 3.3.9 questions by discussing communication in personal relationships and evaluating supporting research.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2027
- Course
- Psychology SL
- Level
- SL
Exam points
- Discuss and evaluate research on communication in maintaining personal relationships, linking findings to relationship outcomes.
IB Psychology SL 3.3.9 Communication Questions question 1
[Maximum number: 22]
Discuss the role of communication in maintaining relationships.
Refer to the paper 2 assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term "discuss" requires candidates to offer a considered and balanced review of the role of communication in maintaining relationships. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Responses may include, but are not limited to, the following aspects of communication:
- content of communication (ratio between positive and negative communication)
- communication patterns tend to differ across marital types (interdependent, independent and separate)
- amount of communication
- self-disclosure.
Additional points of discussion may include, but are not limited to:
- cultural biases
- difficulties of carrying out research on communication styles
- ethical concerns when conducting research.
Relevant studies and/or theories may include, but are not limited to:
- gender-based communication styles (Tannen, 1990)
- the importance of self-disclosure (Altman and Taylor's social penetration theory)
- the role of micro-expressions (Gottman and Levinson, 1986).
Candidates should not simply describe theories or studies, but show how they help us to better understand the role of communication in maintaining relationships.
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