are often perceived in varying degrees by the participants--not necessarily the same from each perspective. Mader and Mader (1993) thus define interpersonal communication as "a process in which two or more people attempt to create meaning so that they can develop and improve their relationship" (p. 17).
Finally, there is a need to recognize that communication is a process which is irreversible and unrepeatable. Once something is uttered it cannot be erased--like the bell which cannot be unrung. One can apologize for an insulting remark or an argument, but that cannot undo the original hurt. And just as one cannot change what has occurred in the past neither can the past be repeated. But, with a modicum of effort, and through experience, we can learn to interact better.
When we communicate with others, we present peculiar images of ourselves. In order to understand how we are perceived by others, researchers Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham developed the four-quadrant "Johari window" which
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