The Positive Side of Interpersonal Communication: 14 (Language as Social Action)

Building on past research that includes prosocial-antisocial communication, positive psychology, as well as complementing the dark side of interpersonal communication, this groundbreaking volume brings together veteran interpersonal communication scholars to examine the bright, positive sides of communication in human relations. Together, they begin to frame a conceptual foundation for studies on the «positive» side of interpersonal communication, or in general terms, relational communication that promotes happiness, health, and wellness. In the process they examine moments of relational beauty, laughter and play, positive emotion, relational support, understanding, and forgiveness, as well as facilitation of positive character traits and positive relational communication values. The Positive Side of Interpersonal Communication is intended to serve as a starting point for future research as well as inspiring new areas of interpersonal communication scholarship.

Thomas J. Socha, PhD, is University Professor, Professor of Communication, and Graduate Program Director at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia.

Margaret J. Pitts, PhD, is Assistant Professor of Communication at the University of Arizona, Tucson.