Bridges Not Walls examines the power and promise of interpersonal communication in intimate relationships, families, communities, and cultures. The text presents a broad range of scholarly and popular articles drawn from several disciplines, including communication, psychology, and philosophy, all chosen for their understandability and practical applicability. Within these readings are thought-provoking discussions of interpersonal contact, identity-management, verbal and nonverbal cues, perception, listening, assertiveness and self-disclosure, family communication, intimacy and social support, defensiveness and hurtful communication, conflict management, culture, and dialogue. Together, the readings emphasize the social and relational elements of human communication, the overlapping influence of verbal and nonverbal cues, the prominence of culture, and the close connection between quality of communication and quality of life.

Bridging Differences is based on the assumption that the processes operating when we communicate with people from other groups are the same processes operating when we communicate with people from our own groups. Author William B. Gudykunst has written this book from the perspective of "communicating with strangers" and addresses how factors related to our group memberships (e.g., inaccurate and unfavorable stereotypes of members of other cultures and ethnic groups) can cause us to misinterpret the messages we receive from members of those groups.

The Dynamics of Intergroup Communication provides a timely and comprehensive review of work at the intersection of intergroup relations and communication. Chapters written by experts in the field overview current research and present directions for the future. The book is divided into sections addressing specific groups, intergroup communication processes, and core contexts in which intergroup communication occurs.

This text presents and explains theories in communication studies from the epistemological perspectives of the researchers who use them. Rather than representing a specific theoretical paradigm (social scientific, interpretive, or critical), the author team presents the three major paradigms in one text, each writing in his or her area of expertise. Every theory is explained in a "native" voice, from a position of deep understanding and experience, improving clarity for readers. The text also provides insights on using communication theory to address real-life challenges. Considering that theories are developed to guide scholarly research more than to provide practical advice, this feature of the book helps students create realistic expectations for what theories can and cannot do and makes clear that many theories can have practical applications that students can use to their advantage in everyday life. Offering a comprehensive exploration of communication theories through multiple lenses, Exploring Communication Theory provides an integrated approach to studying communication theory and to demonstrating its application in the world of its readers.

This perennial bestseller has already helped tens of thousands of readers resolve conflicts and transform their relationships with family members, romantic partners, colleagues, and friends. Renowned therapist Michael P. Nichols explains why we often feel cut off from those we care about and provides easy-to-learn techniques for really hearing and being heard. Thoughtful, witty, and empathic, the book is filled with vivid examples that readers of all ages and walks of life can relate to. The revised second edition features practical exercises for building key skills, plus a new chapter on listening to kids and teens.

Measurable, data driven outcomes are not the only indicators of success in todays multicultural and globalized workforce. How employees interact with their colleagues and customers is also a significant factor in their career development. Luciara Nardon draws on her extensive research and international experience to guide employees and managers through the ambiguous and uncertain waters of todays multicultural workplace. Each intercultural encounter is unique, involving different people, contexts, dynamics, and actions which general cultural protocols are unable to address. In Working in a Multicultural World, Nardon offers a comprehensive framework for understanding intercultural interactions and developing skills for successful intercultural situations. Numerous examples and exercises, including how to reconcile personal beliefs of equality with a hierarchical workplace and how to respond to perceived aggressiveness in business negotiations, enable employees and managers to embark on reflective processes that will springboard their intercultural competence. Working in a Multicultural World is an accessibly written and valuable resource for all professionals in todays workplace as well as students and travelers interested in intercultural relations.