ABSTRACT
Human beings are social, interactive creatures that are distinguished from animals due to their ability to reason, rationalise and reflect upon their surroundings. They form intricate social networks using language and emotion as a basis to these relationships. These networks grow to formulate communities and complex societies which function in a uniform and cohesive manner. Being able to communicate, therefore, is an essential part of the human makeup. In recent times, more emphasis has been placed on the teaching of good communication skills at an earlier stage in medical training. This chapter defines what good communication is and how one may utilise it appropriately in the doctor–patient relationship. Communication is the art of conveying information from one individual to another. The amount of information one imparts to the patient may also affect their ability to digest its content.
