Updated in a new 8th edition, Communication: Making Communications is a popular, comprehensive introduction to speech communication that skillfully blends theory, current research and skills, while emphasizing the connections between communication and our daily lives.

Unique in its integrated “connections” theme and streamlined pedagogy, this textbook introduces the basic principles of public speaking, interpersonal communication and group communication. The constant application of a solid theoretical foundation to everyday communication through relevant examples, thought-provoking questions and boxed features stress Communication Competence.

Communication has new and strengthened pedagogy highlights and reinforces the “connections” theme throughout the book, demonstrating how communication connects us to each other in a variety of contexts: the workplace, family, friends, community, school, public communication settings, the Internet and across cultures.

I. MAKING CONNECTIONS THROUGH COMMUNICATION

1. Connecting Process and Principles

Communication : Making Connections

What Is Communication?

Why Should We Study Communication?

Principles of Communication.

Essential Components of Communication

Types of Communication.

Misconceptions about Communication

Improving Communication Competence

2. Connecting Perceptions and Communication

Perception and Communication

Understanding Perception

The Nature of Perception

Perceptual Differences

Improving Perception Competencies and Perception Checking

3. Connecting Self and Communication

Understanding Self-Concept

Communication and Self-Concept

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy and Impression Management

Culture and Self-Concept

Gender and Self-Concept

Enhancing Self-Concept

4. Connecting Through Verbal Communication

The Importance of Language

The Elements of Language

Language-Based Barriers to Communication

How to Use Language Effectively

5. Connecting Through Nonverbal Communication

What Is Nonverbal Communication?

Characteristics of Nonverbal Communication

Functions of Nonverbal Communication

Types of Nonverbal Communication

Interpreting and Improving Nonverbal Communication

6. Connecting Listening and Thinking in the Communication Process

The Importance of Effective Listening

Listening and Hearing: Is There a Difference?

The Stages of Effective Listening

The Functions of Listening

Barriers to Effective Listening

Critical Listening and Critical Thinking: Analyzing and Evaluating Messages

Improving Listening Competence

Listening and Technology

Intercultural Listening

II. CONNECTING IN THE PUBLIC CONTEXT

7. Selecting a Topic and Relating to the Audience

Selecting a Speech Topic

Determining the General Purpose, Specific Purpose, and Thesis of a Speech

Connecting With the Listeners

8. Gathering and Using Information

Gathering Information

Suggestions for Doing Research

Using Research to Support and Clarify Ideas

9. Organizing and Outlining Your Speech

Organize the Body of Your Speech

Organize the Introduction of Your Speech

Organize the Conclusion of Your Speech

Outline Your Speech

10. Managing Anxiety and Delivering Your Speech

Qualities of Effective Speakers

Managing Speech Anxiety

Methods of Delivery

Vocal and Physical Aspects of Delivery

Presentational Aids

Your Delivery

11. Informative Speaking

Information and Power

Distinctions between Informative and Persuasive Speaking

Topics for Informative Speeches

Preparing and Developing an Informative Speech

Evaluating the Informative Speech

A Sample Informative Speech with Commentary

12. Persuasive Speaking

The Goal of Persuasive Speaking

Topics for Persuasive Speeches

Persuasive Claims

Establishing Credibility

Becoming Effective Consumers of Persuasion

Preparing and Developing a Persuasive Speech

Fallacies in Argument Development

Evaluating the Persuasive Speech

A Sample Persuasive Speech with Commentary

III. CONNECTING IN RELATIONAL CONTEXTS

13. Interpersonal Communication

Connecting with Others via Interpersonal Communication

Motivation and Need to Form Relationships

Relationships: Getting to Know Others and Ourselves

Connecting With Others Online

Self-Disclosure in Relationships

14. Developing Relationships

Forming and Dissolving Relationships

Interpersonal Conflict

Improving Communication Competence in Relationships

15. Group and Team Communication

Small Group Communication: Making the Connection

What Is a Group?

Group Formation: Why We Join Groups and Why We Leave

Types and Purposes of Small Groups

Project or Work Teams

Characteristics of Small Groups

Gender Differences in Group Communication

Ethical Behavior in Group Communication

Virtual Groups and Teams

Disadvantages of Small Groups

16. Participating in Groups and Teams

Team Building

Leadership

Conducting a Meeting

Member Participation

Problem Solving and Decision Making

Managing Group Conflict

Evaluating Small Group Performance

Appendix: Employment Interviewing: Preparing for Your Future

Preparing for Your Career

Career Research on the Internet

Choosing a Career

Qualities Employers Seek

Preparation for an Interview

The Interview

Factors Leading to Rejection

Factors Leading to Job Offers