Effective Communication

Communication is basic to many professions, however effective communication is very important in the Criminal justice setting than anywhere else. The communication process is more than just a foundation; it is an important aspect of every decision in the process. Decisions and judgment often rely upon key information that is provided, and any small change in this information may have dramatic results. Therefore the communication process is more than just a foundation; it is an important aspect of every decision.

Verbal and non-verbal communications are the key components of communication. Verbal communications are the selective words that we use. The use of language has a power to set the atmosphere that is created during problem solving. Words that are critical such as blaming, judgmental, or accusatory could perhaps change the problem solving from being productive. To create productive atmosphere's positive words should be used to get the point across. A good example is when someone says "it's not what you said; it's how you said it". Verbal communication includes speeches, face to face conversations, telephone conversations, press conferences, and many others.

Nonverbal communication includes posture, face expression, gestures, voice tone and body poses. Nonverbal communication is the primary way that people communicate emotions. Within the criminal justice system writing is the leading source of non-verbal communication: "Criminal justice professionals must be able to write clearly and coherently. Excerpts from reports are often introduced into court proceedings, and superiors review them as part of the investigative process." (Grubb, Hemby, 2003)

Listening is a trait that is developed as early as childhood. In relations to the criminal justice system listening is the most valuable tool that is most valuable and effective in communication. Listening is part of the everyday job of a police officer, lawyer, judge, investigator, or any law enforcement official. By listening information can be given that is critical to a case. The information heard could be something that was not intended to be told, but was most definitely heard by the officer.

There are four types of listening: inactive, selective, active, and reflective. If a person is inactively listening, then the message being relayed is not being heard. Selective listening is when a person hears only what they want to. Active listening is when a person not only listens to the content of the message, but listens intently. Reflective listening is when the receiver will work with the sender in order to clarify the message that was being transmitted. Active and reflective listening would be the most important in the criminal justice system. Active listening is important because a person would want to be focused on what the other is saying, thus being able to understand the emotion behind it as well. Reflective listening is important so that the information being given is taken as it was planned to.

Formal and informal communication can be easily determined within an organization. Within the criminal justice system includes courts, police, and corrections. Formal communication channels follow the chain of command and have several advantages and disadvantages. Formal communication ensures all officers within the department receive the same information. This is important especially for new detectives who are informed of certain crime or information that may need to be passed on to all officers in patrol. However a