Description
In the 16th Edition of The Interpersonal Communication Book, Joseph A. DeVito reaffirms his role as a leading voice in communication studies by blending scholarly research with practical skills tailored for today’s interconnected world. With choice as the philosophical foundation of the book, DeVito emphasizes how individual decisions in communication shape relationships and message effectiveness.
This edition has been thoughtfully updated to reflect major societal moments—including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement—revealing how interpersonal communication operates both in personal interactions and public discourse. The narrative is enriched with fresh, thought-provoking visuals and real‑world viewpoints aligned with current events, reinforcing relevance and learning engagement.
The structure of the text is organized into three comprehensive parts:
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Foundations of Interpersonal Interaction: covering culture, self-perception, and the ethics of choice
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Interpersonal Messages: exploring verbal, nonverbal, listening, and emotional communication
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Relationship Dynamics: including relationship stages, conflict, power, and influence
Each chapter concludes with a Summary of Skills and Summary of Concepts to help readers apply theoretical insight in everyday communication contexts. The edition also broadens accessibility by adopting inclusive, non-binary pronoun usage and updated imagery aligning with modern representation.
Ideal for undergraduate communication courses, professional training, or personal growth, this edition offers actionable insights and tools for improving connection, empathy, and influence in every interaction.