why are communication studies considered discipline of the applied social sciences
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Communication studies are considered a discipline of the applied social sciences because they use theories and methods from social science to solve real-world communication problems and improve human interaction in various contexts.
Explanation (300 words):
Communication studies belong to the applied social sciences because they integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications to address human interaction issues in everyday life. Social sciences broadly examine human behavior, relationships, and society, using scientific methods. Applied social sciences take this knowledge and use it to solve specific, practical problems—and communication studies do just that in fields like media, education, business, healthcare, and politics.
Communication studies analyze how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts, cultures, channels, and media. It draws upon psychology, sociology, anthropology, and linguistics to understand how communication works and how it can be improved. For example, communication theories help professionals create effective advertising, mediate conflicts, teach effectively, and build public relations strategies.
In practice, communication studies are applied in multiple professions:
- In media and journalism, it helps journalists convey information clearly and responsibly.
- In business, it aids in enhancing teamwork, leadership, and marketing communication.
- In politics, it is crucial in speechwriting, campaigning, and managing public perception.
- In healthcare, effective communication improves doctor-patient relationships and health education.
- In education, it assists in developing better teaching methods and classroom interactions.
Thus, communication studies serve as a bridge between theory and practice. Scholars in this field not only study how humans interact but also offer solutions to improve these interactions, making the field deeply practical and essential in addressing societal needs.
In summary, communication studies are part of the applied social sciences because they use social science tools and insights to understand, evaluate, and improve how people share information and connect with each other in real-world settings.