IB Psychology SL 3.3.9 Communication Question Bank
Practise IB Psychology SL/HL 3.3.9 by applying communication concepts to exam-style questions.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2027
- Course
- Psychology SL
- Level
- SL
Exam points
- identify the relevant model, concept or evidence
- apply the correct subject framework to the question
- evaluate the result using clear evidence and subject terminology
3.3.9—Communication question 1
[Maximum number: 22]
Discuss the role of communication in personal relationships.
Refer to the paper 2 assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term "discuss" requires candidates to offer a considered review of the role of communication in personal relationships.
Communication plays a relevant role at all stages of the development of personal relationships. Examples of theories and models explaining the role of communication in relationships may include, but are not limited to: social penetration theory, approaches based on the concept of attributional styles and approaches based on the concept of patterns of accommodation.
Candidates may address specific types of personal relationships (eg romantic, peer, parent
adolescent) or personal relationships in general. Both approaches are equally acceptable. Also, candidates may address the role of communication in the formation, maintenance or breakup of a relationship.
Relevant theories may include, but are not limited to:
- Social exchange theory
- Equity theory
- Rusbault's investment theory
- Duck's resolution theory
Relevant studies may include, but are not limited to:
- Fincham's (2004) study of the role of communication in marital satisfaction
- Gottman and Levenson's (1986) study on the role of communication of emotions in relationships
- Burgoon et al.'s (2000) study of the use of mindfulness and interpersonal communication
- Ying et al.'s (2015) study on parent-adolescent communication to build trust
- Levenson and Gottman's (1983) study on the relationship between marital dissatisfaction and negative affect
- Collins and Miller's (1994) study investigating the role of disclosure in relationship building
- Tannen's (1990) research examining the communication differences between men and women.
Critical discussion may include, but is not limited to:
- methodological and ethical considerations
- how the findings of research have been interpreted and applied
- implications of the findings
- assumptions and biases
- gender and/or cultural differences in communication
- alternative theories/explanations.
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