Supportive and Defensive Communication

Explores the communication structure of a cruise company. Argues that communication is a key area concerning productivity and job satisfaction on board cruise ships. The Communication Climate Inventory was distributed to all employees in the company, and returned satisfactorily filled in by 236 employees. It was found that the degree of defensiveness was higher and the degree of supportiveness was lower on board ships than for the company′s land‐based operations. Interprets the results in view of organizational climate, culture and traditions. Makes suggestions concerning appropriate measures to be taken in order to improve on current communication practices.