Communication is a complex process, and it is difficult to define it. A reasonable definition of communication would need to cover at least the situation where a person intends to convey information and a person receives information as a result (whether or not is intended). There are also many types of communication (or miscommunication) where a person attempts to convey information, but it is not received or has no impact. For example, advertising attempts to stimulate a response on the part of the audience, but in many cases it seems unclear if the messages are even received. Nonetheless, this could be an important form of communication even if only a small percentage of the audience reacts to the stimulus. There are also many situations where a person derives information or reacts to a stimulus even when nothing was intended to be communicated. For example, there are many situations where a person’s appearance conveys a message to others that was not intended (for example, that the person is sloppy or lazy).
Each of the models in Chapter 2 is useful in describing some aspects of communication. The psychological model seems the most robust, since the messages that are meant to be sent and the information that is received are the result of mental processes. In particular, this model seems more appropriate for predicting responses to advertising and mass media. The psychological model is criticized for focusing on the individual and ignoring cultural context. However, culture impacts a person’s psychology, so cultural aspects could be incorporated into the model to some extent. Extending the psychological model to incorporate cultural aspects from the social constructionist model seems to be a good direction for developing a more complex model of communication.
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You mentioned that there are many types of communication/miscommunication where a person attempts to convey a message that isn't well received. I think that this is very common and I think that this is a big problem in our society. More often than not, a message or idea isn't going to be adopted or accepted easily. Many people get discouraged and give up. When this happens, some communication seizes. I think that repetition is an important factor in making sure that the message gets across and that those delivering the message should be confident in what they are trying to deliver and not be so easily discouraged.
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