Relationship Communication Wiki

Meta-Communication: Discussing How We Communicate

Meta-Communication: Discussing How We Communicate

Meta-Communication: Discussing How We Communicate

1. Problem: Couples focus on communication "content" but the real issue is often "how" we communicate. Meta-communication is "communication about communication."

2. Core: Three levels—content (what's said), process (how it's said), relational (what this pattern means for our relationship). Attachment: "When I raise my voice, it's my anxiety speaking."

3. Practice: Monthly "communication checkups"—15 minutes on "how's our communication been?" Use meta-communication openers.

4. Summary: Meta-communication transforms communication from something happening between you to something you can examine together—participant becomes observer.