What is wrong? What is right? The answer to these questions will differ depending upon whom you ask about a given situation. While most people within a given environment share moral similarities, it is incorrect to assume that moral norms are always ethical. Morals can be influenced by upbringing and religion, and are only a portion of the conversation regarding ethical behavior. Location and circumstance can change the aspects of who benefits and who suffers from certain actions; both war and a boxing match can determine a winner of a conflict for instance, yet the scale of the impacted groups differ and the trauma associated with each can vary greatly. Much is the same with injustice. This chapter will focus on common missteps in communication that can cause harm, and how to avoid poor, negative, and confusing messaging.

"tattooed military" by Support Tattoos and Piercings at Work is  licensed CC BY-SA 

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:  

1. Predict outcomes from verbal and non-verbal communications (CO #1,2,3,4,5,6,7).
   
2. Portray oneself as an ethical and well-educated person by demonstrating an understanding of identity and cultural differences (C.O. 1,2,6,7)

To achieve these objectives: 

1. Read the Module 15 Introduction 
   
2. Read and view the materials in Chapter 15 of Strategies for Effective Business Communication
3. Complete the "Test Your Understanding" activity at the end of the chapter in the textbook.
   

Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities