What is Interpersonal Communication?

Interpersonal communication is direct face to face communication between two persons, an intimate two way exchange with immediate feedback.

It turns on presence and mutual response, so each speaker reads the other's words, tone and body language on the spot.

Communication among a large group of people describes mass communication, whose scattered audience is far removed from this one to one closeness.

Communication through newspapers, magazines, cinema, radio, television, video and the internet is mass or mediated communication, not the direct personal kind.

Talking to oneself through reflection, contemplation and meditation is intrapersonal communication, the inner dialogue within a single mind.

Interpersonal communication is prized for its rich, instant feedback and its power to build relationship.