Argyle's Communication Cycle
20 January 2026 Views: 1986

Argyle's Communication Cycle

How Argyle’s Communication Cycle Improves Effective Professional Communication?

Have you ever heard ‘’Good communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity.’’ If so, then you know the importance of it. Whether it is academics, workplaces, or anywhere else, it is the core for mutual understanding. When talking about the conversation, Argyle’s communication cycle is what cannot be ignored.

It is one of the classic communication approaches ever built to turn words into clarity and confidence. With all of these supreme advantages, learning about it can definitely be beneficial. In this amazing blog, you are going to learn about the technique from its beginning to its core stages. So, don’t miss anything and let’s get started.

What is Argyle’s Communication Cycle? (Key Factors and Significance)

As defined by its name, the cycle reflects the technique for better communication. It serves as a circular psychological model that focuses on a continuous interactive process between two or more individuals. In simple terms, it explains how people interpret messages, respond to them, and modify their behaviour based on feedback.

Basically, the model showcases the significance like this:

  • Communication is goal-oriented, not accidental.
  • Feedback determines whether the communication is successful.
  • Based on interpretation and response, behaviour changes.

In short, the Argyle’s communication theory simplifies the conversation by understanding feedback, reply, and changing it according to behaviour. Now, you might be thinking about ‘’how the model originated’’? So, don’t worry and let’s cover it in the next section.

Who Developed Argyle’s Communication Cycle?

When it comes to the origin of the Argyle’s communication, one person remains highly responsible. Michael Argyle is the man behind this outstanding technique that is used by thousands of individuals for better communication. He was a British social psychologist who was known for his strong research on interpersonal behaviour and social interaction.

The model is also called the ‘Argyle 1972 communication model’ because Michael developed this theory in 1972. His goal is to show that interpersonal communication is a dynamic, two-way process that functions as a continuous, six-stage loop. This is when he introduced the model, and now we are all very well aware of its impact.

Now you understand the background of the model and its core purpose. It's time to look at its 6 stages, which Michael talked about.

The Core 6 Stages of Argyle’s Communication Cycle

As Michael Argyle talks about, the interpersonal communication cycle is a dynamic process that functions in a six-stage loop. By understanding these phases, you will be informed about the model's meaning, importance, and significance for yourself. Let’s get into it:

Idea Occurs

This is the beginning when the sender gets an idea or a message which they want to share with others. What is important here is the clarity of the message, intent or goal before it is conveyed.

According to the model, a good idea evokes a conversation by specifying the sender’s intent and focus of the message.

Message Coded

At the next stage, the sender converts the idea into a message. For this, the sender selects the words, gestures, tone, body language, and written form. A better message is initiated when it has clarity and proper understanding for the receiver.

Without this, the message feels confusing and creates a barrier to conversation continuation.

Message Sent

Through the communication channel, such as speech, writing, or gestures, the sender transmitted the message. It is often seen that the quality of the message is affected by the communication channel.

Sometimes clarity is not the sender's responsibility because other factors like noise, technical issues or misunderstandings also lead to poor communication.

Message Received

This is the stage where the receiver obtains the message. Now, it is defined as a crucial step because this decides the direction of the conversation. After receiving the message, the receiver interprets it based on understanding, experience, and context.

For better communication, the receiver's proper attention also plays a significant role. Unclear understanding leads to confusion.

Message Decoded

From the receiver side, this is the communication continuation message. At this moment, the reciever decode the message to interpret its meaning. The condition of better communication requires the receiver's efforts to deep analysis of language, tone, and context. That’s why there are chances of misinterpretation if the message is not defined clearly.

Message Understood

At this final stage, the receiver comprehends the 'message' as the sender intended. It is often confirmed by feedback (nodding, verbal response). This is what becomes a new idea of the sender, allowing them to assess effectiveness and adjust if needed.

These 6 stages are the core where communication begins and runs in a loop. But the question is ‘how Argyle’s communication cycle lead to effective communication?’ Let’s explore in the next section.

How Does the Technique Lead to Effective Communication?

The core of the model revolves around feedback, and this is what is used to make the communication better. By allowing the adjustment of the message, the sender can change their approach, which leads to:

  • Fewer misunderstandings
  • Improved clarity and engagement.
  • Stronger professional relationships.
  • Better outcomes in collaborative environments.

The impact of Argyle’s communication cycle in practical application:

  • Healthcare: In the medical field, your execution is the most crucial thing that highly depends on how well you communicate with doctors and patients. Through feedback, you can understand things better and make informed care decisions.
  • Education: A major impact is seen in the education sector, where teachers can deliver better results through effective communication. They can adapt explanations based on student responses and engagement levels.
  • Workplace: With the right feedback and communication, better teamwork can be initiated in workplaces. It happens through clarity and strong understanding between managers and employees via a feedback loop.
  • Business: Client and customers often look for their expected answers or outcomes for decision-making. By communicating effectively, you can increase customer satisfaction and negotiation success by refining messages.

Just like this, there are many areas where the communication cycle leaves its strong impact. Not only for professional roles, but it also applies to students for growth in their academics. Want to know how? Let’s get into it in the next section.

How is the Argyle’s Communication Cycle Relevant to Academic Students?

Argyle’s communication cycle is playing a crucial role in every stage of life. With better communication, not only professionals, but also students can win in their academics because this is the core. Feeling confused? Here is how the model is highly relevant to scholars:

  • In the classroom discussion, better listening and speaking in a correct way are important. This model helps to understand the statements clearly and deliver answers according to the questions.
  • Group projects are common where different students share their ideas and strategies. You can better comprehend them with effective communication.
  • As a part of the academic program, you are required to showcase your projects. If you can define ideas clearly by listening to them, your explanations remain relevant.
  • Tutors assess your projects and give modifications which you have to complete. By understanding their changes clearly with feedback, you can follow their guidelines effectively.
  • If you are seeking assignment support from experts, which is common in academia, the communication still matters. You can carefully understand professionals' feedback and follow it.

It is clear that the model is very effective for students, but one question arises: why only Argyle’s communication cycle if there are many? Let’s clear this confusion in the next section.

The Difference Between Argyle’s and Other Communication Cycles

When it comes to communication techniques, many, such as Weaver and Shannon’s Linear Model and Berlo's SMCR Model, already exist. However, the question is how Argyle’s Communication Cycle is different from others. Let’s explore below:

Aspects Argyle’s Communication Cycle Other Communication Models (Shannon–Weaver, Berlo SMCR)
Structure Circular Mostly linear or semi-linear
Role of Feedback Central to the process at every stage Often limited or delayed
Focus Mutual understanding and behavioural adjustments Message transmission from sender to receiver
Adaptability Allow real-time modifications Assume the message remains fixed
Human Interaction Interpersonal communication Technical or mechanical in nature
Error Correction Identified and can be corrected with feedback Noise may disrupt communication
Practical Use Healthcare, education, and workplaces Mostly used in mass communication and media studies
Learning and Improvement Communication improves with each cycle Limited scope of improvements

Now you understand the difference and why Argyle’s communication cycle is effective. Now it’s time to move to the final step and explore some key takeaways.

Key Takeaways

In short, Argyle’s communication cycle is an impressive yet effective way that leads to smooth conversation. At the end of this blog, here is what you need to explore to begin your journey by utilising this model:

  • Argyle’s communication cycle shows communication as a two-way, continuous process.
  • Feedback is crucial to reduce misunderstandings and improve message clarity.
  • Instead of one-way messaging, the model reflects real-life professional interactions.
  • The model has a vast yet commendable usage in education, healthcare, the workplace, and scholarly communications.

If you still find understanding the model difficult, then New Assignment Help UK experts are here to support. You can seek their assistance for handholding learning, but also explore many other effective models to improve writing, speaking, etc. So, take the first step towards great assistance and excel in academics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Argyle's theory useful for health and social care?

Argyle’s theory is useful for health and social care because it emphasises feedback. This is important for ensuring understanding between professionals and patients. Additionally, it reduces misunderstandings, improves patient safety, and supports person-centred care.

What are the 6 stages of the communication cycle?

The 6 stages of the communication cycle are:
1. The sender creates a thought or intention.
2. Then, the idea is turned into words, gestures, and symbols.
3. At the third stage, the message is communicated verbally or non-verbally.
4. Now, the receiver interprets the message.
5. The reciever decode the message with a deep analysis of the language.
6. At the last step, the receiver responds and completes the communication loop.

Is Argyle’s communication cycle linear or circular?

Argyle’s communication cycle is circular. Unlike linear models that limit or delay feedback, Argyle’s model allows continuous message adjustment. This continuous feedback is what allows the sender to adjust their message.

What are the limitations of Argyle’s Communication Cycle?

The limitations of Argyle’s communication cycle are quite significant, which will be beneficial for you to understand:
It assumes feedback is always available, which is not the case in all situations.
It overlooks the power imbalance in professional settings.
Focuses on giving limited attention to cultural and emotional factors.
Less or not suitable for one-way communication.
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