ABSTRACT
Despite the fact that communication skills play a vital role in almost every facet of our lives, communication performance deficits are common. This chapter examines the role of ability and motivation as impediments to optimal (i.e., “best possible”) communication endeavors. The “Standard Model” holds that communication proficiency is a function of ability and motivation, and that performance will suffer when either or both is absent or insufficient. The Standard Model is then applied in an examination of performance deficits in that most common of communication contexts, casual conversation (i.e., “small talk”). Everyday conversation serves a number of important social functions, and despite the fact that it is typically taken to be an “easy,” nonthreatening pastime, in fact, many people experience difficulties and profess to dislike such interactions. Specific abilities and motivational factors relevant to proficiency in casual conversation are discussed.
