The Role of Interpersonal Communication in Strengthening Family Bonds: A Study

Abstract

Family communication is a key aspect of interpersonal communication, as it forms the foundation of how individuals interact with one another within the family unit. The family, often considered the smallest segment of society, is a space where members openly share their thoughts, emotions, and experiences-ranging from happiness and joy to frustration, fear, and pain. This open exchange is made possible by the trust that develops from an early age. A child, as they interact with parents, siblings, and elders, builds this trust over time, which in turn shapes the topics and nature of communication as they grow. As family members mature, the relationships become deeper and more nuanced, fostering an environment where open and honest discussions can take place.

The style and content of family communication often vary depending on the type of relationship between members. Over time, the role of mass media and new communication technologies, such as newspapers, magazines, radio, television, the internet, and social media, have become integral to the way families in India communicate. These mass media channels have increasingly occupied both time and space in Indian households, influencing how family members interact with one another. New communication technologies, in particular, have transformed traditional modes of communication within the family, making it essential to understand their impact on family dynamics in contemporary Indian society.

It is crucial to examine how mass media technologies have affected communication patterns in Indian households, the ways in which they shape family interactions, and their influence on the timing and nature of interpersonal communication. This shift in communication practices highlights the changing landscape of family life in India and the role of technology in shaping those dynamics.