Contemporary Communication Theory
Edition: 3
Copyright: 2025
Pages: 642
Edition: 3
Copyright: 2025
Pages: 642
Choose Your Format
$130.00 USD
Ebook
$65.00 USD
The third edition of Contemporary Communication Theory continues the tradition of being primarily social science based yet includes research and theories from other theoretical paradigms. Chapters have been condensed and streamlined to improve readability and accessibility. New theories have been added and underutilized theories have been removed.
Contemporary Communication Theory:
- focuses on the complementary, interdependent relationship of theory building and research in the communication discipline.
- emphasizes the social scientific, or behavioral science, approach to the study of communication
- explains communication as a human symbolic activity
- covers theory in a broad, but selective, manner
- presents both classic and relatively novel theories
- includes Appendices that provide a history of theory development within the field of communication as well as an overview of quantitative research methods
Contemporary Communication Theory is divided into three parts. The first part provides an introduction and foundation. The second part focuses on several major approaches to understanding communication. The third part examines theory building contextually, in contexts such as interpersonal, relational, group, organizational, mass communication, computer-mediated, health, and cultural contexts.
PART I CONTEMPORARY THEORY IN COMMUNICATION
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO STUDYING COMMUNICATION
Basics in Understanding Communication
Basic Components and Concepts
Defining Communication
Characteristics of Communication
Points of Controversy about Communication
Communication and Intent
Communication as Planned Behavior
Transactional Nature of Communication
The Importance of Communication
Creating Cooperation
Acquiring Information
Forming Self-Concept
As Entertainment
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 2 PERSPECTIVES ON CONTEMPORARY COMMUNICATION THEORY
The Scientific Method
Theory Building Through Deductive, Inductive, and Abductive Approaches
Identifying Variables to Be Investigated
Development of Hypotheses
Conduct an Empirical Investigation
Compare Results to the Original Hypothesis
Assess Theoretical Signifi cance of the Findings and Identify Threats to Validity
What Makes a Quality Communication Theory?
Communication Theory Development
Fundamental Goals of Communication Theory
How Many Theories Are Enough?
Seven Theoretical Traditions in Building Communication Theory
The Sociopsychological Tradition
The Cybernetic Tradition
The Rhetorical Tradition
The Phenomenological Tradition
The Sociocultural Tradition
The Critical Tradition
The Semiotic Tradition
Extension of the Theoretical Traditions Approach to Communication Theory
The Spiritual Tradition
The Buddhist Tradition
The Confucian Tradition
Summary
Key Terms
PART II CONTEMPORARY COMMUNICATION THEORY: MAJOR APPROACHES
CHAPTER 3 TRAIT APPROACHES
Contexts, Traits, and States
The Cross-Situational Consistency Framework
Apprehension Traits
Strategies for Reducing Communication Apprehension
Communication Apprehension as Biologically Determined
Presentation Traits
Adaptation Traits
Aggression Traits
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 4 VERBAL BEHAVIOR APPROACHES
Signs, Symbols, and Signals
Language and Meaning
Language and Perception
Theory of Linguistic Relativity
Language and Power
Communicating Power and Status
Sex, Gender, and Power: Differences in Verbal Behavior
Language Intensity, Opinionated Language, and Forewarnings
Theoretical Approaches to Verbal Behavior
Communication Accommodation Theory
Language Expectancy Theory
Politeness Theory and Face Management
Information Manipulation Theory
Information Manipulation Theory 2
Propositions of Information Manipulation Theory 2
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 5 NONVERBAL BEHAVIOR APPROACHES
Affective-Cognitive Dimensions of Communication
The Contextual Nature of Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal Behavior and Intentionality
Nonverbal Communication Abilities
Variable Analytic Approach to Conceptualizing Nonverbal Communication
Functions of Nonverbal Communication
Sending Uncomfortable Messages
Forming Impressions
Making Relationships Clear
Regulating Interaction
Influencing People
Reinforcing and Modifying Verbal Messages
Nonverbal Expectancy Violations Theory
Interaction Adaptation Theory
Strengths and Weaknesses of IAT
Nonverbal Immediacy
Cognitive Valence Theory: An Extension of Nonverbal Immediacy
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 6 PERSUASION APPROACHES
Conceptualizing Persuasion
Self-Awareness and Persuasion
Approaches to Understanding Persuasion
Looking at the Source, Message, Channel, and Receiver: The Variable-Analytic Approach
Research on Message Variables
Witte’s Extended Parallel Process Model: An Extension of Previous Research on Fear Arousal and Persuasion
Source Credibility and Persuasion
Cognitive Complexity and Persuasion
Cognitive Dissonance Theory
Social Judgment/Ego-Involvement Theory
The Theory of Reasoned Action
The Theory of Planned Behavior
Elaboration Likelihood Model
Compliance-Gaining
Cialdini’s Persuasive Heuristics
Preventing and/or Resisting Persuasion
Inoculation Theory
Psychological Reactance Theory
Personality Traits and Persuasion
Summary
Key Terms
PART III CONTEMPORARY COMMUNICATION THEORY: COMMUNICATION CONTEXTS
CHAPTER 7 INTERPERSONAL CONTEXTS
The Interpersonal Communication Motives Model
Goals-Plans-Action Theory and Planning Theory
GPA Theory
Planning Theory
From Goals and Plans to Action
Constructivist Theory
Relational Framing Theory
Truth Default Theory
Uncertainty Reduction Theory
Three Stages of Initial Interactions
Uncertainty Reduction Axioms
Uncertainty Reduction Theorems
Motives to Reduce Uncertainty
Strategies to Reduce Uncertainty
Testing and Extending Uncertainty Reduction Theory
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 8 RELATIONAL CONTEXTS
Similarity and Interpersonal Attraction
Predicted Outcome Value Theory
Relationship Interaction Stages Model
Relationship Maintenance Model
Relational Dialectics Theory
Dialectical Tensions throughout the Life Span
Relational Turning Points
Relational Turbulence Model
Communication Privacy Management Theory
Family Communication Patterns Theory
Understanding Families
Patterns of Communication in Families
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 9 GROUP CONTEXTS
Nature of Groups
Group Size
Types of Groups
Group Roles
Group Leadership
Trait Approach to Leadership
Functional Group Approach
Style Approach to Leadership
Group Conflict
Group Conformity
Functional Theory of Group Decision Quality
Theory of Groupthink
Multiple Sequence Model of Group Decisions
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 10 ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXTS
Classical Management Perspectives
Scientific Management Theory
Bureaucracy Management Theory
Effective Management Theory
Human Relations Management Perspectives
Human Resource Management Perspective
System 4 Management Theory
X,Y Management Theory
Theory Z of Management
Model I and Model II Theory
Managerial Grid Theory
Theory of Independent Mindedness
Theories of Organizational Leadership Communication
Trait Approach to Leadership Communication
Communication and Situational Approaches to Leadership
Communication and Exchange Approaches to Leadership
Communication and Worker Motivational Theories
Hierarchy of Needs Theory
Motivator Hygiene Theory
Acquired Needs Theory
Organizational Socialization
Model of Organizational Assimilation
Organizational Information Processing
Information Systems Theory
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 11 MASS COMMUNICATION CONTEXTS
Early Theory-Building Efforts in Mass Communication
The “Magic Bullet” Theory
The Two-Step Flow Theory
Diffusion Theory
The Functional Approach to Mass Communication Theory
Agenda-Setting Theory and Mass Communication
Framing Theory
Social Cognitive Theory
Mass Communication and Parasocial Interaction
The Influence of Interpersonal Communication Theory on Parasocial Relationships
Measuring Parasocial Interaction
Uses and Gratifications Theory
Objectives of Uses and Gratifications Theory
Uses and Gratifications, Media Affordances, and Social Media Use
Examples of Uses and Gratifications Research
Cultivation Theory
The Interaction of Media and Reality
Heavy versus Light Television Viewers
Refinement of Cultivation Theory
The Spiral of Silence Theory
Media Dependency Theory
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 12 COMPUTER-MEDIATED COMMUNICATION CONTEXTS
Cues-Filtered-Out Theories of CMC
Social Presence Theory
Lack of Social Context Cues
The Social Identity Model of Deindividuation Effects
Channel Selection Theories
Media Richness Theory
Channel Expansion Theory
Media Synchronicity Theory
Social Amplification of Risk Framework
Theories of Adaptation to CMC
Social Information Processing Theory
Hyperpersonal Model
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 13 HEALTH CONTEXTS
Functions of Communication in the Health Context
Communication Contexts within Health Communication
Relational Control/Compliance
Communication Traits and Health Behavior
Supportive Communication and Health
Social Support Theory
Life Stress, Coping, and its Effects on Mental and Physical Health
Social Support and Health Outcomes
Buffering Effects and Main Effect Model of Social Support
Relational Perspective of Social Support
Constructivist Perspective of Social Support
Health Communication Theory
Uncertainty Management
Diffusion of Innovation
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 14 INTERCULTURAL CONTEXTS
General Dimensions of Culture
Face Negotiation Theory
Model of Face Negotiation
Cultural Factors
Individual Factors
Relational/Situational Factors
Conflict Styles
Anxiety/Uncertainty Management Theory
Cross-Cultural Adaptation Theory
Summary
Key Terms
APPENDIX A COMMUNICATION RESEARCH METHODS
The Scientific Method
Research Variables
Types of Research Variables
Types of Relationships
Constitutive and Operational Definitions
Hypotheses and Research Questions
Reliability and Validity
Reliability Is a Necessary Condition for Validity
Levels of Measurement
Rating Scales
Behavioral Observation
Content Analysis
Physiological Measures
Sampling
Experiments
Experimental Design
Factorial Design
Field Research
Summary
Key Terms
APPENDIX B THE DEVELOPMENT OF APPROACHES TO COMMUNICATION
The Rhetorical Tradition in the Development of Communication Theory
Basic Rhetorical Concepts
Inventio/Invention
Dispositio/Arrangement
Elocutio/Style
Pronuntiatio/Delivery
Memoria/Memory
Descriptive Models of Communication
The Schramm Model of Communication
Berlo’s SMCR Model of Communication
The McCroskey Model of Communication
The Ruesch and Bateson Model of Communication
The Westley-MacLean Model of Communication
Major Approaches in the Development of Contemporary Communication Theory
The Yale Studies on Communication
Contributions
Limitations
An Information Approach to Communication
Berlo’s Process Approach to Communication
Style-Specific or Special Communication Theories
General Theories of Communication
Cognitive Dissonance
Symbolic Convergence
Burke’s Theory of Dramatism
Contextual Approaches to Communication
Summary
Key Terms
REFERENCES
GLOSSARY
SUBJECT INDEX
NAME INDEX
Andrew S. Rancer (Ph.D., 1979, Kent State University) is Professor in the School of Communication at The University of Akron. He is the co-author of six books and numerous book chapters. His research has largely centered on argumentative and aggressive communication and has appeared in several national and regional journals including Communication Education, Communication Monographs, Communication Quarterly, and Communication Research Reports, among others. He is the recipient of several honors, including the Centennial Scholar, Distinguished Research Fellow, and Past President’s Award from the Eastern Communication Association. In 2011, his teaching was recognized by the National Communication Association when he was the recipient of an Exemplary Teacher Award.
Theodore A. Avtgis, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at Western Illinois University-Quad Cities. He specializes in medical communication, organizational communication processes and communication predispositions in general business and healthcare organizations. Dr. Avtgis received his Ph.D. in Communication Studies from Kent State University. Dr. Avtgis has authored more than 65 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters focusing on organizational communication, health communication, risk and crisis communication, and aggressive communication. His work has appeared in journals such as Management Communication Quarterly, Journal of Trauma: Injury, Infection, and Critical Care, Communication Education, and Communication Research Reports among many others. He is co-author of fifteen books. Dr. Avtgis was recognized as one of the top 50 most productive researchers in the field of communication studies between 1996-2001 (tied for 12th). Other honors include being named a Centennial Scholar (2009 Eastern Communication Association), Distinguished Scholar (2011 Eastern Communication), Past Presidents’ Award Recipient (Eastern Communication Association), Research Fellow (2012 Eastern Communication Association), Teaching Fellow (2013 Eastern Communication Association), Honoree (2013 Ohio Magazine Excellence in Education), and recipient of the Ashland University Academic Mentor Award (2015). Dr. Avtgis has served as Editor in Chief of Communication Research Reports and has served on the editorial boards of eleven scholarly journals and was recognized as a member of the World Council on Hellenes Abroad (USA Region of American Academics). Throughout his career, Professor Avtgis has served on the faculty of academic institutions including St. John’s University, West Virginia University, Ashland University, and the University of Akron.
Kevin B. Wright, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication at George Mason University where he teaches undergraduate and graduate classes on health communication, interpersonal communication, life span communication, and social media and health. Dr. Wright received his Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma. His research focuses on social support processes, messages, and health outcomes in face-to-face and social media contexts, health-related stigma, cancer caregiving communication, risk and crisis communication, and social media-based health interventions. He is the author or coauthor of 10 books, including Health Communication in the 21st Century, Life Span Communication, and Computer-Mediated Communication in Personal Relationships. He has published over 120 journal articles including in publications such as Communication Monographs, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, Journal of Communication, Health Communication, Journal of Health Communication, Journal of Applied Communication Research, and the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR). Moreover, he has presented his research at over 150 papers at regional, national, and international conferences. From 2007 to 2010, Dr. Wright served as editor of the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication (published by the International Communication Association), and as an editorial board member and reviewer for numerous journals. Additionally, Dr. Wright has been a guest lecturer or visiting scholar at numerous universities in the U.S. and internationally. He has been active in several funded research projects, including funding from NIH, NSF, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Dr. Wright also serves a consultant to various health-related organizations in the Washington D.C. area.
"Contemporary Communication Theory’s focus on the social scientific makes the universe of topics easier to structure."
Edward Woods, Marshall University
"The organization of Contemporary Communication Theory is intriguing in that it works at a more conceptual level, rather than moving along more by specific theories. I appreciate the inclusion of Craig's seven traditions. That is a useful tool."
David Carlone, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
"I really like the organization of Contemporary Communication Theory. I think students will appreciate the ways in which many theories are covered under a coherent theme of topics (i.e. ELM in persuasion). Often students don't understand how theories connect together, but rather see them as very separate bodies of research. The nice thing with this organization is that the professor can always choose to add his or her own depth to a theory.
Alicia Alexander, Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville
The third edition of Contemporary Communication Theory continues the tradition of being primarily social science based yet includes research and theories from other theoretical paradigms. Chapters have been condensed and streamlined to improve readability and accessibility. New theories have been added and underutilized theories have been removed.
Contemporary Communication Theory:
- focuses on the complementary, interdependent relationship of theory building and research in the communication discipline.
- emphasizes the social scientific, or behavioral science, approach to the study of communication
- explains communication as a human symbolic activity
- covers theory in a broad, but selective, manner
- presents both classic and relatively novel theories
- includes Appendices that provide a history of theory development within the field of communication as well as an overview of quantitative research methods
Contemporary Communication Theory is divided into three parts. The first part provides an introduction and foundation. The second part focuses on several major approaches to understanding communication. The third part examines theory building contextually, in contexts such as interpersonal, relational, group, organizational, mass communication, computer-mediated, health, and cultural contexts.
PART I CONTEMPORARY THEORY IN COMMUNICATION
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO STUDYING COMMUNICATION
Basics in Understanding Communication
Basic Components and Concepts
Defining Communication
Characteristics of Communication
Points of Controversy about Communication
Communication and Intent
Communication as Planned Behavior
Transactional Nature of Communication
The Importance of Communication
Creating Cooperation
Acquiring Information
Forming Self-Concept
As Entertainment
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 2 PERSPECTIVES ON CONTEMPORARY COMMUNICATION THEORY
The Scientific Method
Theory Building Through Deductive, Inductive, and Abductive Approaches
Identifying Variables to Be Investigated
Development of Hypotheses
Conduct an Empirical Investigation
Compare Results to the Original Hypothesis
Assess Theoretical Signifi cance of the Findings and Identify Threats to Validity
What Makes a Quality Communication Theory?
Communication Theory Development
Fundamental Goals of Communication Theory
How Many Theories Are Enough?
Seven Theoretical Traditions in Building Communication Theory
The Sociopsychological Tradition
The Cybernetic Tradition
The Rhetorical Tradition
The Phenomenological Tradition
The Sociocultural Tradition
The Critical Tradition
The Semiotic Tradition
Extension of the Theoretical Traditions Approach to Communication Theory
The Spiritual Tradition
The Buddhist Tradition
The Confucian Tradition
Summary
Key Terms
PART II CONTEMPORARY COMMUNICATION THEORY: MAJOR APPROACHES
CHAPTER 3 TRAIT APPROACHES
Contexts, Traits, and States
The Cross-Situational Consistency Framework
Apprehension Traits
Strategies for Reducing Communication Apprehension
Communication Apprehension as Biologically Determined
Presentation Traits
Adaptation Traits
Aggression Traits
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 4 VERBAL BEHAVIOR APPROACHES
Signs, Symbols, and Signals
Language and Meaning
Language and Perception
Theory of Linguistic Relativity
Language and Power
Communicating Power and Status
Sex, Gender, and Power: Differences in Verbal Behavior
Language Intensity, Opinionated Language, and Forewarnings
Theoretical Approaches to Verbal Behavior
Communication Accommodation Theory
Language Expectancy Theory
Politeness Theory and Face Management
Information Manipulation Theory
Information Manipulation Theory 2
Propositions of Information Manipulation Theory 2
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 5 NONVERBAL BEHAVIOR APPROACHES
Affective-Cognitive Dimensions of Communication
The Contextual Nature of Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal Behavior and Intentionality
Nonverbal Communication Abilities
Variable Analytic Approach to Conceptualizing Nonverbal Communication
Functions of Nonverbal Communication
Sending Uncomfortable Messages
Forming Impressions
Making Relationships Clear
Regulating Interaction
Influencing People
Reinforcing and Modifying Verbal Messages
Nonverbal Expectancy Violations Theory
Interaction Adaptation Theory
Strengths and Weaknesses of IAT
Nonverbal Immediacy
Cognitive Valence Theory: An Extension of Nonverbal Immediacy
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 6 PERSUASION APPROACHES
Conceptualizing Persuasion
Self-Awareness and Persuasion
Approaches to Understanding Persuasion
Looking at the Source, Message, Channel, and Receiver: The Variable-Analytic Approach
Research on Message Variables
Witte’s Extended Parallel Process Model: An Extension of Previous Research on Fear Arousal and Persuasion
Source Credibility and Persuasion
Cognitive Complexity and Persuasion
Cognitive Dissonance Theory
Social Judgment/Ego-Involvement Theory
The Theory of Reasoned Action
The Theory of Planned Behavior
Elaboration Likelihood Model
Compliance-Gaining
Cialdini’s Persuasive Heuristics
Preventing and/or Resisting Persuasion
Inoculation Theory
Psychological Reactance Theory
Personality Traits and Persuasion
Summary
Key Terms
PART III CONTEMPORARY COMMUNICATION THEORY: COMMUNICATION CONTEXTS
CHAPTER 7 INTERPERSONAL CONTEXTS
The Interpersonal Communication Motives Model
Goals-Plans-Action Theory and Planning Theory
GPA Theory
Planning Theory
From Goals and Plans to Action
Constructivist Theory
Relational Framing Theory
Truth Default Theory
Uncertainty Reduction Theory
Three Stages of Initial Interactions
Uncertainty Reduction Axioms
Uncertainty Reduction Theorems
Motives to Reduce Uncertainty
Strategies to Reduce Uncertainty
Testing and Extending Uncertainty Reduction Theory
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 8 RELATIONAL CONTEXTS
Similarity and Interpersonal Attraction
Predicted Outcome Value Theory
Relationship Interaction Stages Model
Relationship Maintenance Model
Relational Dialectics Theory
Dialectical Tensions throughout the Life Span
Relational Turning Points
Relational Turbulence Model
Communication Privacy Management Theory
Family Communication Patterns Theory
Understanding Families
Patterns of Communication in Families
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 9 GROUP CONTEXTS
Nature of Groups
Group Size
Types of Groups
Group Roles
Group Leadership
Trait Approach to Leadership
Functional Group Approach
Style Approach to Leadership
Group Conflict
Group Conformity
Functional Theory of Group Decision Quality
Theory of Groupthink
Multiple Sequence Model of Group Decisions
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 10 ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXTS
Classical Management Perspectives
Scientific Management Theory
Bureaucracy Management Theory
Effective Management Theory
Human Relations Management Perspectives
Human Resource Management Perspective
System 4 Management Theory
X,Y Management Theory
Theory Z of Management
Model I and Model II Theory
Managerial Grid Theory
Theory of Independent Mindedness
Theories of Organizational Leadership Communication
Trait Approach to Leadership Communication
Communication and Situational Approaches to Leadership
Communication and Exchange Approaches to Leadership
Communication and Worker Motivational Theories
Hierarchy of Needs Theory
Motivator Hygiene Theory
Acquired Needs Theory
Organizational Socialization
Model of Organizational Assimilation
Organizational Information Processing
Information Systems Theory
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 11 MASS COMMUNICATION CONTEXTS
Early Theory-Building Efforts in Mass Communication
The “Magic Bullet” Theory
The Two-Step Flow Theory
Diffusion Theory
The Functional Approach to Mass Communication Theory
Agenda-Setting Theory and Mass Communication
Framing Theory
Social Cognitive Theory
Mass Communication and Parasocial Interaction
The Influence of Interpersonal Communication Theory on Parasocial Relationships
Measuring Parasocial Interaction
Uses and Gratifications Theory
Objectives of Uses and Gratifications Theory
Uses and Gratifications, Media Affordances, and Social Media Use
Examples of Uses and Gratifications Research
Cultivation Theory
The Interaction of Media and Reality
Heavy versus Light Television Viewers
Refinement of Cultivation Theory
The Spiral of Silence Theory
Media Dependency Theory
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 12 COMPUTER-MEDIATED COMMUNICATION CONTEXTS
Cues-Filtered-Out Theories of CMC
Social Presence Theory
Lack of Social Context Cues
The Social Identity Model of Deindividuation Effects
Channel Selection Theories
Media Richness Theory
Channel Expansion Theory
Media Synchronicity Theory
Social Amplification of Risk Framework
Theories of Adaptation to CMC
Social Information Processing Theory
Hyperpersonal Model
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 13 HEALTH CONTEXTS
Functions of Communication in the Health Context
Communication Contexts within Health Communication
Relational Control/Compliance
Communication Traits and Health Behavior
Supportive Communication and Health
Social Support Theory
Life Stress, Coping, and its Effects on Mental and Physical Health
Social Support and Health Outcomes
Buffering Effects and Main Effect Model of Social Support
Relational Perspective of Social Support
Constructivist Perspective of Social Support
Health Communication Theory
Uncertainty Management
Diffusion of Innovation
Summary
Key Terms
CHAPTER 14 INTERCULTURAL CONTEXTS
General Dimensions of Culture
Face Negotiation Theory
Model of Face Negotiation
Cultural Factors
Individual Factors
Relational/Situational Factors
Conflict Styles
Anxiety/Uncertainty Management Theory
Cross-Cultural Adaptation Theory
Summary
Key Terms
APPENDIX A COMMUNICATION RESEARCH METHODS
The Scientific Method
Research Variables
Types of Research Variables
Types of Relationships
Constitutive and Operational Definitions
Hypotheses and Research Questions
Reliability and Validity
Reliability Is a Necessary Condition for Validity
Levels of Measurement
Rating Scales
Behavioral Observation
Content Analysis
Physiological Measures
Sampling
Experiments
Experimental Design
Factorial Design
Field Research
Summary
Key Terms
APPENDIX B THE DEVELOPMENT OF APPROACHES TO COMMUNICATION
The Rhetorical Tradition in the Development of Communication Theory
Basic Rhetorical Concepts
Inventio/Invention
Dispositio/Arrangement
Elocutio/Style
Pronuntiatio/Delivery
Memoria/Memory
Descriptive Models of Communication
The Schramm Model of Communication
Berlo’s SMCR Model of Communication
The McCroskey Model of Communication
The Ruesch and Bateson Model of Communication
The Westley-MacLean Model of Communication
Major Approaches in the Development of Contemporary Communication Theory
The Yale Studies on Communication
Contributions
Limitations
An Information Approach to Communication
Berlo’s Process Approach to Communication
Style-Specific or Special Communication Theories
General Theories of Communication
Cognitive Dissonance
Symbolic Convergence
Burke’s Theory of Dramatism
Contextual Approaches to Communication
Summary
Key Terms
REFERENCES
GLOSSARY
SUBJECT INDEX
NAME INDEX
Andrew S. Rancer (Ph.D., 1979, Kent State University) is Professor in the School of Communication at The University of Akron. He is the co-author of six books and numerous book chapters. His research has largely centered on argumentative and aggressive communication and has appeared in several national and regional journals including Communication Education, Communication Monographs, Communication Quarterly, and Communication Research Reports, among others. He is the recipient of several honors, including the Centennial Scholar, Distinguished Research Fellow, and Past President’s Award from the Eastern Communication Association. In 2011, his teaching was recognized by the National Communication Association when he was the recipient of an Exemplary Teacher Award.
Theodore A. Avtgis, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at Western Illinois University-Quad Cities. He specializes in medical communication, organizational communication processes and communication predispositions in general business and healthcare organizations. Dr. Avtgis received his Ph.D. in Communication Studies from Kent State University. Dr. Avtgis has authored more than 65 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters focusing on organizational communication, health communication, risk and crisis communication, and aggressive communication. His work has appeared in journals such as Management Communication Quarterly, Journal of Trauma: Injury, Infection, and Critical Care, Communication Education, and Communication Research Reports among many others. He is co-author of fifteen books. Dr. Avtgis was recognized as one of the top 50 most productive researchers in the field of communication studies between 1996-2001 (tied for 12th). Other honors include being named a Centennial Scholar (2009 Eastern Communication Association), Distinguished Scholar (2011 Eastern Communication), Past Presidents’ Award Recipient (Eastern Communication Association), Research Fellow (2012 Eastern Communication Association), Teaching Fellow (2013 Eastern Communication Association), Honoree (2013 Ohio Magazine Excellence in Education), and recipient of the Ashland University Academic Mentor Award (2015). Dr. Avtgis has served as Editor in Chief of Communication Research Reports and has served on the editorial boards of eleven scholarly journals and was recognized as a member of the World Council on Hellenes Abroad (USA Region of American Academics). Throughout his career, Professor Avtgis has served on the faculty of academic institutions including St. John’s University, West Virginia University, Ashland University, and the University of Akron.
Kevin B. Wright, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication at George Mason University where he teaches undergraduate and graduate classes on health communication, interpersonal communication, life span communication, and social media and health. Dr. Wright received his Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma. His research focuses on social support processes, messages, and health outcomes in face-to-face and social media contexts, health-related stigma, cancer caregiving communication, risk and crisis communication, and social media-based health interventions. He is the author or coauthor of 10 books, including Health Communication in the 21st Century, Life Span Communication, and Computer-Mediated Communication in Personal Relationships. He has published over 120 journal articles including in publications such as Communication Monographs, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, Journal of Communication, Health Communication, Journal of Health Communication, Journal of Applied Communication Research, and the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR). Moreover, he has presented his research at over 150 papers at regional, national, and international conferences. From 2007 to 2010, Dr. Wright served as editor of the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication (published by the International Communication Association), and as an editorial board member and reviewer for numerous journals. Additionally, Dr. Wright has been a guest lecturer or visiting scholar at numerous universities in the U.S. and internationally. He has been active in several funded research projects, including funding from NIH, NSF, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Dr. Wright also serves a consultant to various health-related organizations in the Washington D.C. area.
"Contemporary Communication Theory’s focus on the social scientific makes the universe of topics easier to structure."
Edward Woods, Marshall University
"The organization of Contemporary Communication Theory is intriguing in that it works at a more conceptual level, rather than moving along more by specific theories. I appreciate the inclusion of Craig's seven traditions. That is a useful tool."
David Carlone, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
"I really like the organization of Contemporary Communication Theory. I think students will appreciate the ways in which many theories are covered under a coherent theme of topics (i.e. ELM in persuasion). Often students don't understand how theories connect together, but rather see them as very separate bodies of research. The nice thing with this organization is that the professor can always choose to add his or her own depth to a theory.
Alicia Alexander, Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville