Final answer:
Interpersonal communication involves exchanging information, feelings, and meanings via verbal and non-verbal messages. It is a crucial skill for effective social interaction and relationship building, with reflexive communication highlighting intentionality in social contacts. Symbolic Interactionist Theory underlines the active role of individuals in shaping their social realities through communication.
Step-by-step explanation:
Interpersonal communication is the process by which people exchange information, feelings, and meaning through verbal and non-verbal messages: it is not just about what is actually said - the language used - but also how it is said and the non-verbal messages sent through tone of voice, facial expressions, gestures and body language. When we interact with others, we continually give and receive wordless signals. All of this takes place in a variety of settings and is integral to the development and maintenance of human relationships.
The effectiveness of interpersonal communication is seen as a personal skill that affects the quality of our social interactions in various scenarios including personal and professional life. Being proficient in this type of communication means being able to effectively convey and interpret messages, and to use this information to guide behavior and relationships. Sociability and an interest in others are part of reflexive communication, marking an intention to engage and connect with others.
Symbolic Interactionist Theory also plays a significant role in understanding interpersonal communication by emphasizing the exchange of meaning through language and symbols, highlighting that individuals actively shape their social reality through communication. This reflects the broader concept that communication underpins our social organization, as it is essential for society to function.