ABSTRACT
The content of our speech is the direct link in communication between our thoughts and the individual receiving the speech message. Speech is also our most efficient method of communication (Skinner, 1952, 1992). In most non-stress situations, we do quite well in preventing the receiver from gaining insight into the true thoughts and feelings we may be experiencing. When we are under stress due to conflict or anxiety, the normally quiet internal conversation we have with ourselves becomes strong and loud, and slips past our efforts at self-censorship. When this happens, the receiver begins to hear our true thoughts and feelings. If that receiver is skilled at decoding that information, he is capable of becoming an intimate partner in our thoughts.
