Lasswell's Model

Definition

Lasswell's Model is a communication framework developed by Harold D. Lasswell in the 1940s, emphasizing the process of communication by breaking it down into five key components: Who (the communicator), Says What (the message), In Which Channel (the medium), To Whom (the audience), and With What Effect (the outcome). This model connects to various aspects of public relations, as it helps understand how messages are crafted and disseminated to achieve specific responses from audiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lasswell's Model highlights that every communication event can be analyzed through its five components, making it a valuable tool for understanding message effectiveness.
2. The model emphasizes the importance of the communicator's role in shaping the message and influencing audience perception.
3. In public relations, this model aids practitioners in designing campaigns by clarifying objectives and tailoring messages for specific audiences.
4. Lasswell's Model also serves as a foundation for later theories and models of communication, influencing how scholars and practitioners analyze communication processes.
5. The 'With What Effect' component underscores the need for evaluating the impact of messages on audiences, which is essential for successful public relations efforts.

Review Questions

• How does Lasswell's Model help in understanding the role of communicators in public relations?
  • Lasswell's Model highlights the significance of the communicator as the initial creator of messages tailored to achieve desired outcomes. In public relations, understanding who communicates and their intentions allows practitioners to craft more effective messages that resonate with target audiences. By focusing on this aspect, PR professionals can enhance their strategic planning and ensure their messaging aligns with organizational goals.
• Discuss the implications of the 'With What Effect' component in Lasswell's Model for evaluating communication strategies.
  • The 'With What Effect' component of Lasswell's Model emphasizes assessing the outcomes of communication efforts. This aspect is crucial in public relations, as it encourages practitioners to measure the impact of their campaigns on audience attitudes and behaviors. Evaluating effects helps determine whether communication strategies are successful or require adjustments, leading to more informed decision-making and improved engagement with stakeholders.
• Evaluate how Lasswell's Model compares to other communication models in its application to public relations practice.
  • Lasswell's Model stands out by focusing on a linear process of communication that simplifies analysis through its five distinct components. Compared to interactive models like Schramm's or Berlo’s, which emphasize feedback loops and context, Lasswell’s approach provides clarity in initial message formulation and delivery. However, while it offers a foundational understanding, modern public relations practices require integrating feedback and adaptability, reflecting the dynamic nature of communication today.

Related terms

Communication Process: A series of steps through which a message travels from the sender to the receiver, including encoding, transmitting, and decoding.

Feedback: The response or reaction of the audience to a message, crucial for understanding the effectiveness of communication.

Media Theory: The study of how different forms of media affect public perception and behavior, shaping communication strategies in public relations.