THEODORE M.
NEWCOMB'S
COMMUNICATION MODEL
INTRODUCTION
Who was Theodore M. Newcomb?
Theodore M. Newcomb’s was an American social
psychologist know for his research on social and influence
and interpersonal relationship. He explored how college
student attitude changes in response to their social
environment. His work significantly shaped the field of
social psychology, and he authored influential textbooks
before his death in 1984. He developed the ABX model of
Communication in 1950s.
OVERVIEW
This model is interpersonal as it is focused on
communication as a social process. Its emphasis
on the relationship among people involved in
communication. It stresses importance of
communication which is balanced and
symmetrical.
COMPONENTS OF THE
MODEL
A(Sender): Person X(Message): The
or group who message being
starts the communicated.
communication.
B(Receiver):
The Person or
Group receiving
the message.
NEWCOMB’S TRIADIC
RELATIONSHIP
• This model suggests communication flow within the triadic
relationship.
• A B X
⚬ A and B are influenced by each other’s attitudes toward the topic
X.
⚬ Balance is achieved when both A and B hold similar attitudes
toward X.
• Communication is aimed at maintaining balance.
SYMMETRY AND BALANCE IN COMMUNICATION
• Balance Theory: The • If A and B have an
purpose of imbalance communication
communication is to helps re-establish the
maintain balance perspectives of A and B
between A, B, and X. relative to X.
EXAMPLE OF THE MODEL
• Scenario: A and B two friends talk about a political issue X.
• Communication between two equals is smooth and
balanced if they both agree on X.
• Their attitudes balance if they disagree, feedback focuses it
on making that so.
• This model provides a way to understand how mutual dis-
agreements create mutual understanding.
STRENGTHS OF
NEWCOMB’S MODEL
It puts emphasis on relationships and feedback.
Useful in understanding interpersonal communication.
It helps explain how people can shape a perspective of another
person.
Particularly valuable in conflict resolution and group dynamics.
LIMITATIONS OF NEWCOMB’S
MODEL
• It's an assumption that all communication is aimed at
balance.
• Does not apply to mass communication and digital
interactions.
• Does not account for external factors such as culture or
media influence.
"There is no perfect model, but they give us a picture of
that which is invisible."
THE IMPACT OF NEWCOMB’S
MODEL ON COMMUNICATION
STUDIES
• Newcomb’s model has influenced research in social
psychology and communication theory.
• It is used as a basis of studying group dynamics and
conflict resolution.
• Is still relevant in the understanding of discussion such
as interpersonal and small group communication.
MODERN RELEVANCE OF
NEWCOMB’S MODEL
• Although developed in the 1950s, the model is
surging in relevance.
• Also describes contexts of online communication and
social media interactions.
• It helps us to understand how people negotiate
opinions in such a highly connected world.
CONCLUSION
• Theodore M Newcomb’s communication model
helps us learn in terms of interpersonal
communication.
• The focus is on how individuals and the way it is
possible to live together characterize
communication, trying to be balanced.
• It continues to affect current communication
studies.
THANK
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