Human relations is the field of study that deals with group behavior and interactions between people. The term human relations may also be used, in a broader sense, to describe any form of personal interaction, and the abilities and skills used for such interaction. In this sense, human relations may also be called interpersonal relations.
Because people are social beings, individuals live in constant contact with others. Children first learn to interact with their family members and playmates. As children grow, their activities may increasingly center around their friends, schoolwork, religion, or special interests and hobbies. Students may join clubs and sports teams. Adults may surround themselves with their family or join a labor union, political party, or service organization. In addition, people frequently become parts of temporary groups, such as concert audiences or shopping crowds. In each of these situations, there are possibilities for conflict between the various members of the community. The field of human relations seeks to avoid, reduce, or resolve these conflicts in everyday life.
The study of human relations.
All individuals have certain needs, and people differ in what they consider important. Human relations experts seek to discover the best means of meeting needs and achieving desired goals with a minimum of conflict. They must know why people act as they do, how they react to different situations, and what will make them change their minds. Experts study the economic, sociological, psychological, religious, and political motivations that cause various human actions.
The science of human relations depends on the contributions of various fields of the social sciences. Economists study the relationships of people as they produce and distribute goods and services. Political scientists compile knowledge about the behavior of people attempting to maintain order. Cultural anthropologists compare ways of living in various societies. Social psychologists concentrate on the ways in which group life molds the individual’s attitudes and personality. Sociologists study the structure of social life and the ways in which groups are formed and function.
Human relations skills
enable a person to relate to others effectively. Such skills include communication, cooperation, decision making, leadership, and problem solving. Human relations skills require a knowledge of social norms (standards) so that individuals can make informed judgments and decisions based on them. Most groups have certain formal and informal regulations that aim to minimize misunderstandings and conflicts. Each member of the group is expected to learn and follow these rules. However, people with good human relations skills have more than just a knowledge of rules and norms. They also have such emotional and moral qualities as self-respect, respect for others, and the desire to respond to situations in a caring, responsible, and constructive way.
Human relations skills develop largely as a result of relationships with family, friends, co-workers, and other people in the community. In addition, some companies and organizations hire human relations professionals to aid in the development of such skills. The development of human relations skills allows people to interact more effectively at home, in school, at work, and in the community at large.
