Communication is Key (Episode 6, Chapter 6)

After reading Chapter 6, the concepts of verbal and nonverbal communication seemed to jump out at me in this episode. The dimensions of team talk were evident in a variety of situations but, more often than not, the dimension of identification was readily identifiable. In both tribes, members were heard using plural pronouns when talking about their tribes. Alec expressed concern about “our tribe” and wondered aloud about “what we’re going to do” about food in the Hunahpu tribe. Jeremy, also, identified with his team as he stated his belief that “we can win a reward tomorrow.”

On the other hand, singular pronouns were also used frequently, but in a different context. When tribe members were talking about their own personal agendas in the game, they began saying things like “I won’t be going home” and “this goes in my favor”. It should be noted, however, that this kind  of speech was only used when tribe members were talking one-on-one with the camera. If anyone used this kind of language in front of the tribe, they would appear self-centered and untrustworthy.

That being said, not all of the communication that occurred in front of the tribe was appropriate. It seems that the tribes are still working their way through the storming stage because abusive language was abundant. Alec was really upset about the mismanagement of food in his tribe and, it was indicative in his verbal expression as he exclaimed, “what the hell guys?” It didn’t stop there, though. After Julie had a rough night in the rain, Alec used some offensive language to communicate how he felt about the matter.  Saying things like, “Bitch, this is Survivor!” is demeaning and not an effective way to use team talk.

It follows, however, that Alec wasn’t the only tribe member to use abusive language. Jeremy was clearly irritated with the way his tribe handled the lack of food situation and, he complained that those “braniacs gave [the tarp] away”…”they’re so dumb!” While this language is highly offensive, no words were necessary to interpret how Jeremy felt about his tribe’s decision. Jeremy’s nonverbal behavior left no doubt  that was he clearly unhappy with losing the tribe’s comfort items.

However, despite the offensive language and disagreements, the Hunahpu tribe continues to dominate. Coyopa does a better job of managing their resources at camp, but they can’t get it together for the challenges. Hunahpu is the stronger tribe but, maybe the tide will turn…