Which of the following is NOT one of the basic elements of interpersonal communication?

The basic elements of interpersonal communication include the sender, the message being conveyed, and the feedback from the receiver back to the sender. The sender initiates communication, delivering the message intended. This message is then received and interpreted by the individual on the other side, who can provide feedback to the sender, completing the communication loop.

Authority, while important in many contexts, is not a fundamental element of the communication process itself. It pertains more to the dynamics of communication that may influence the interaction rather than being a necessary component of the communication itself. In situations where communication occurs, authority may shape the context but does not constitute a basic element like the sender, message, and feedback do. Understanding these interactive components is crucial for effective communication, especially in leadership and fire service scenarios.