1. Consider how Buber’s theory of communication applies to your life. For each of the three types of relationship (I–It, I–You, I–Thou) identify one person with whom you share that relationship.

2. Improve Your Metacommunication

For each of the scenarios described here, write out one verbal or nonverbal metacommunication that would be appropriate to express your feelings about what has been said or to clarify understanding.

a. You are arguing with a person who seems more interested in winning the argument than in working things through so that both of you are satisfied. You want to change how the argument is proceeding.

b. Your manager at work routinely gives you orders instead of making requests. You resent it when she says to you, “Take over the front room,” “Clean up the storeroom now,” and “I want you in early tomorrow.” You want to change how your manager expresses expectations for your performance.

c. Lately, someone who used to be a close friend seems to be avoiding you. When you do see the friend, he seems eager to cut the conversation short. He doesn’t meet your eyes and doesn’t tell you anything about his life anymore. You want to know what is going on and how to interpret his communication.

d. You have just spent 10 minutes telling your father why you want to study abroad next year. Earlier, your father said that studying abroad was just an extravagance, but you’ve tried to explain why it will broaden your education and your marketability when you look for a job next year. You aren’t sure your father has understood your points.