Barack and Michelle are out on their first date. At the end of the night, Barack picks up the check and says "I'll pay for dinner this time." From this message, Michelle infers that Barack must be interested in her and would like a second date, because paying for dinner "this time" implies he would like there to be a "next time." What aspect of interpersonal messages allows Michelle to make this judgment about Barack's feelings?
A) relational message
B) content message
C) future message
D) outcome message

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The aspect of interpersonal messages that allows Michelle to make this judgment is the "relational message." This is because relational messages convey information about how the sender feels about their relationship with the receiver, beyond the literal meaning of the words spoken. In this case, Barack's statement implies a desire for future interactions, indicating his interest in Michelle and the potential for a developing relationship.

Barack and Michelle Are Out on Their First Date