Interpersonal Communication in Action

Interpersonal Communication in Action: A Competency Approach helps students understand the intricacies of human interaction and communication practices in a variety of interpersonal contexts. Authors Elizabeth E. Graham and Aimee E. Miller-Ott demonstrate how being a competent communicator is a universal value, even more so now with rapidly advancing technologies.

This textbook is unique in its focus on communication competency. The book presents interpersonal communication as a dynamic, context-sensitive process rather than simply a set of static skills. The goal is to help students not only understand interpersonal communication but also apply it in meaningful, lasting ways. The book's competency-based approach makes intuitive sense and helps students develop the knowledge and skills to be more effective and appropriate communicators in relational contexts.

Though grounded in theory and research, the text is accessible and engaging without sacrificing scholarly rigor. Chapters feature rich pedagogical tools that bring concepts to life: relatable Narratives invite students to pause and think critically about others' experiences; Developing Competency boxes offer practical strategies for strengthening communication skills; Self-Assessment surveys and exercises show where the reader is on various scales and measures; Author's POV sidebars feature firsthand reflections and insights from one or both authors; Technology boxes explore the role of digital media in shaping interpersonal interactions; and Making It Personal activities help students connect course content to their everyday lives.

Written in an informative and engaging style, with a balance between theoretical explanations and practical examples, Interpersonal Communication in Action is the ideal introductory text that encourages self-reflection to help students assess and refine their own communication competence.

Elizabeth E. Graham (Ph.D., Kent State University) is an emeritus professor of communication and former director to the School of Communication Studies at Kent State University.

Aimee E. Miller-Ott (Ph.D., University of Nebraska-Lincoln) is a professor of communication and the director of the School of Communication at Illinois State University.