Skilled Interpersonal Communication

The seventh edition of this text, by Owen Hargie, has been reworked to reflect recent research, newer theory and practical applications, and it is regarded as a leading textbook in its field. Skilled communication with others shapes how well people fare both at work and in private life, and the field has grown considerably in study. Because people are driven to connect with one another, the ability to communicate well tends to bring greater fulfilment. The book concentrates on spotting, examining and assessing the essential skills used in everyday exchanges.

Its opening two chapters explain what interpersonal communication is and what socially skilled performance involves, alongside the major theories that address each. Later chapters examine fourteen key skills in depth: nonverbal communication, reinforcement, questioning, reflecting, listening, explaining, self-disclosure, set induction, closure, assertiveness, influencing, negotiating, and taking part in and leading group discussions. A final chapter considers the ethical questions raised by interpersonal communication.

This edition adds a larger discussion of groupthink. It also looks at how the coronavirus pandemic changed matters such as how people greet one another, and it assesses the UK government's "Project Fear" campaign, which aimed to win public compliance.

The book is intended for students of interpersonal communication and for qualified professionals and trainees across a wide range of fields.