Interpersonal Communication: Competence and Contexts, 2nd Edition

This highly readable book provides interpersonal communication theories, concepts, and applications based on a unique model of communication competence. Studying interpersonal communication through this distinct framework will provide a foundation for readers’ motivation to communicate competently, increase their knowledge about communication, and enhance their acquisition and performance of communication skills. With engaging examples and an attention-getting design, this Second Edition covers a broad range of interpersonal communication themes, including strategic alternatives and solutions to communication challenges.

Part I. The Basics

Chapter 1: Introduction to Interpersonal Communication

The Study of Interpersonal Communication

Interpersonal Communication Competence

Contetxs and Interpersonal CommunicationTypes of Communication

Metacommunication

Principles of Communication

Components in a Transactional Model of Communication

Chapter 2: Perception

Introduction to Perception

Why It's Important to Study Perception and Communication

The Stages in the Perception Process

Perceptual Biases

Describing Sense Data and Perception Checking to Prevent Perceptual Bias

Contexts and Perception

Contexts and Improving Communication Competence

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Stereotyping and Prejudice

Chapter 3: The Self-Concept and Communication

Introduction to the Self Concept

Why It's Important to Study Self-Concept

Characteristics and Components of the Self-Concept

The "Face" We Present to Others

Contexts and Self-Concepts

Defensiveness and Non-Defensive Reactions

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Inflated Self-Esteem

Chapter 4: Emotion and Communication

Introduction to Emotion

Emotions and Physiology: Fast-Track and Slow-Track Circuit Emotions

Types of Emotions

Managing Our Emotions

Expressing Our Emotions

Contexts and Emotions

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Workplace Bullying and Mobbing

 

Part II. Creating Competent Messages

Chapter 5: Creating Competent Messages

Introduction to Verbal Communication

Why It's Important to Study Verbal Communication

Verbal Communication and Meaning

Skills for Improving Verbal Communication

Verbal Communication's Influence on Thought

Contexts and Verbal Communication

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Gender-Biased Language

Chapter 6: Nonverbal Communication

Introduction to Nonverbal Communication

Why It's Important to Study Nonverbal Communication

Functions of Nonverbal Communication

Types of Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal Immediacy Behaviors

Contexts and Nonverbal Communication

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Stalking

Chapter 7: Conversation and Communication Style

Introduction to Conversation and Communication Style

Why It's Important to Study Conversation

Conversation, Communication, Apprehension, and Motivation

How Conversation Functions

Skills of Competent Conversationalists

Contexts, Conversations, and Communication Style

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Conversational Dilemmas

Chapter 8: Listening and Confirming Responses

Introduction to Listening and Confirming Responses

Why It's Important to Study Listening and Confirming Responses

Stages in the Listening Process

Types of Confirmimg Responses

Contexts, Listening, and Confirming Responses

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Face-Threatening Acts

 

Part III. Communication Competency in Relationships

Chapter 9: Disconfirming Commmunication and Setting Boundaries

Introduction to Disconfirming Communication and Setting Boundaries

Why It's Important to Study Disconfirming Communication and Setting Boundaries

Assertive, Aggressive, and Submissive Communication

Setting Boundaries with Assertive Communication

Contexts and Their Influence on Disconfirming Communication and setting Boundaries

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Covert Verbal Abuse

Chapter 10: Interpersonal Relationships

Introducing Interpersonal Relationships

Why It's Important to Study Interpersonal Relationships

Theoretical Perspectives About Interpersonal Relationships and Self-Disclosure

Models of Relational Development

Skills in the Life Cycle of a Relationship

Contexts and Interpersonal Relationships

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Relational Transgressions

Chapter 11: Interpersonal Conflict

Introduction to Interpersonal Conflict

Why It's Important to Study Interpersonal Conflict

Types of Interpersonal Conflict

Personal Conflict Styles

Collaborative Conflict Resolution

Communicating Apologies and Forgiveness

Contexts and Interpersonal Conflict

Overcoming Communication Challenges: Couple Violence