Effective Communication

Effective Communication

Effective Communication

What is effective communication? The definition for effective communication is a two way information sharing process which involves one party sending a message that is easily understood by the receiving party. What does effective communication as to do with criminal justice? It’s one of the most important skills in the field. Staring from the judge, attorneys, police officers, juvenile detention officers, and other positions having daily decision process there is little or no chance for any errors or mistakes. Communication in criminal justice organizations has two parts: verbal and non-verbal. Both forms of communication are very critical in the criminal justice system. I want to focus on the juvenile justice system and how effective communication works.

What is verbal communication? Verbal communication consists of words a person use when a sending a message, but it’s also include the tone of voice, inflection, rhythm, speed of delivery, and emphasis on certain words. In juvenile justice means of communication, verbal communication has its pro and cons. If you raise your voice at the youth, you could have a disconnect in the message you trying to send. With the right tone of voice with respect, the youth will respond without resistance.

What is nonverbal communication? Nonverbal communication is basically body language. From eye contact, touching, facial expressions, gestures, and appearances.

Most detention officers feel like communicating with a teen is a dead end street. During the teen years, it’s typical for a child to confide less in adults and rebel in a juvenile justice setting. Although officers shouldn’t overreact to this developmental process, there are definitely ways to develop and maintain positive, open, and effective communication with the youth. When youths and officer communicate better, less conflicts can be solved more easily which reduces stress for both parties. One of way to have less conflict is to become an active listener. What is active listening? Active listening is when you are not thinking about anything else other than what is being said to you. When a youth is talking to you, you should be spending time trying to understand his or her viewpoint or feelings, not trying to develop arguments or respond to what he or she is saying. You do not have to agree or disagree with him; just make him aware that you understand how he feels. Do not try to explain away the youth emotions. Truly listening to youth builds trust and lets them know that the officer are interested in their thoughts,