Communication Competence

Communication competence is a complex construct that has been widely debated in the communication field. James McCroskey initiated this debate in the early 1980s when he discussed competence in terms of skills, performance, and effectiveness. These arguments then inspired Brian Spitzberg to develop a precise definition, which suggests that communication competence comprises three interdependent constructs: knowledge, skill, and motivation. In other words, communication competence refers to an individual’s knowledge, skill, and motivation to accomplish a particular goal. These are interdependent constructs, meaning that all three are needed to achieve communication competence. For example, an individual may possess the knowledge needed to accomplish a goal, but lack the skill or ability to do so. Likewise, an individual may be motivated to achieve a particular ...

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