This textbook introduces students to the growing body of theory and research regarding communication. Beginning with an orientation to communication theory and research, it explains why people generate theories and conduct research. The authors acknowledge that although the contributions of researchers from psychology, political science, and sociology are important, the most significant development in recent decades is the emergence of communication as a research discipline.

The text attempts to convince students that they are communication theorists who benefit from increased insights, theory, and awareness of research findings. Covering information and persuasion as well as discussing theories of language and meaning, the text provides theory and research relevant to interpersonal, organizational, and mass mediated contexts. Central themes feature the importance of uncertainty reduction, social influence, and self-competence.