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Building Communication Theory

Fourth Edition

 

Dominic A. Infante, Andrew S. Rancer, and Deanna F. Womack

 

The authors have organized this book to help students learn the process of theory building. In clear, engaging, and comprehensible language, they offer a solid foundation for understanding four perspectives on communication. Rather than presenting theories in isolation, they discuss major theories within the structure of a particular approach and provide examples of the contributions each theory has made to explaining and predicting behavior. If a student develops criteria by which to judge a theory, that critical framework can be applied to assess the strengths and weaknesses of any new theory. Confidence in evaluating contributions helps students appreciate and participate in the process. The connections between theorizing and practical applications stimulate interest and further exploration.

 

The text does not attempt to be encyclopedic; rather, it offers a synthesized, coherent view of theory from the social scientific perspective, emphasizing contributions from communication theorists. Learning about theory should be an enjoyable experience; Building Communication Theory creates a context for involving students in an exciting and valuable pursuit.

Arguing Constructively

 

$47.95 list, 400 pages

10-digit ISBN: 1-57766-270-9

13-digit ISBN: 978-1-57766-270-9

© 2003

Instructor’s Manual, Test Bank, and Appendices available

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Table of Contents

 

Part I. THEORY BUILDING IN COMMUNICATION

1. Introduction to Studying Communication

2. Points of View about Theory

3. Paradigms and Communication Theory

Part II. THEORY BUILDING IN MAJOR APPROACHES TO COMMUNICATION

4. Trait Approaches

5. Persuasion Approaches

6. Verbal Behavior Approaches

7. Nonverbal Behavior Approaches

Part III. THEORY BUILDING IN COMMUNICATION CONTEXTS

8. Interpersonal Contexts

9. Group Contexts

10. Organizational Contexts

11. Mass Media Contexts

12. Building Communication Theory: A Focus on Applied Contexts

Conclusion

Glossary