Dark side of communication: negative communication that can undermine the communication process. Researchers began focusing on this dark side of communication, because obviously not all relationships are exciting and rewarding undertakings.
Suggesting that communication has a dark side generally means that communication has a negative component. Negative communication can be manipulative, sarcastic, abusive, and humiliating. It can also take the form of seemingly less harmful behaviors, such as name-calling and teasing, which are common among teenagers. Still, such badgering can be harassing and tormenting. The dark side of communication also includes verbal and psychological abuse and racist, ageist, and homophobic remarks.
When framing negative communication within the transactional model of communication, the complexity of the model becomes apparent. As one person sends supportive messages, the other may be simultaneously sending disparaging messages. People often engage in conversations with an agenda in mind, making miscommunication (and negative communication) possible.
I post this discussion of the dark side of communication because we all know that not all people communicate rationally. In addition, when studying theories associated with interpersonal relationships, some writers believe that the communication field has not been as inclusive and comprehensive as it could be.
Finally, knowing something about negative communication could help you in your conversations with others. Being knowledgeable about negative communication may allow you to understand and detect it when it occurs, and that can be empowering. Also, you should realize, that some conversations go wrong, regardless of how much of your communication is supportive.
