Books by "W. Barnett Pearce"
2 books found
For almost four decades, Theories of Human Communication has offered readers an engaging and informative guide to the rich array of theories that influence our understanding of communication. The first edition broke new ground with its comprehensive discussion of theorizing by communication scholars. Since that time, the field has expanded tremendously from a small cluster of explanations and relatively unconnected theories to a huge body of work from numerous traditions or communities of scholarship. The tenth edition covers both classic and recent theories created by communication scholars and informed by scholars in other fields. Littlejohn and Foss organize communication theory around two intersecting elementscontexts and theoretical traditionsand emphasize the connections, trajectories, and relationships among the theories. They provide clear, accessible explanations that synthesize without oversimplifying. Their extensive use of examples presents theorizing as a natural process and invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and to become active participants in continuing the conversation. In addition to the authors lucid explanations of theories, the text includes From the Source boxes in which the theorists share their perspectives on communication. The extensive bibliography (almost 1,200 entries) and chapter citations are invaluable resources for more in-depth study.
Communication, Conflict, and the Management of Difference
by Stephen W. Littlejohn, Kathy Domenici
2007 · Waveland Press
Littlejohn and Domenici invite readers to engage in a thoughtful dialogue about human difference, conflict, and communication. Drawing on numerous examples from their work in mediation, the authors discuss a variety of practical tools, models, and theories to help analyze conflictwhy it occurs and how communication skills help avoid downward spirals into harmful relationships. Communication competence can move discussions away from harmful interactions and empower parties to expand their options. Effectively managing differences allows conflict, in whatever context, to become a positive resource rather than a barrier. The appendix provides a wealth of information in a succinct format. It discusses basic communication skills; introduces a number of alternative dispute resolution methods, including negotiation, mediation, facilitation, collaboration, and public engagement; and concludes with practical information about dialogue as an important approach to differences.