The effects of lexical context on phonological processing are pervasive and there have been indications that such effects may be modulated by attention. However, attentional modulation in speech processing is neither well documented nor well understood. Experiment 1 demonstrated attentional modulation of lexical facilitation of speech sound…

This paper points out that the available research on communication rules tends to be descriptive (or humanistic) in nature and characterized by a conspicuous absence of prediction along with experimental methods and parametric interpretations of social behavior. The paper first argues that current scientific methodology is consistent with a…

Presents a set of experiments for contrasting Piaget's and Vygotsky's theories relevant to egocentric speech. Formalizes existing verbal theories of egocentric speech and tests two major theories of child communication patterns. (MH)

Reports research results supporting the hypothesis that public speakers exhibit a psychological pattern of speech anxiety similar to the physiological pattern of speech anxiety. (MH)

A set of abstracts in the working stage is presented. A total of 46 is included. The basic focus of this collection is on ways to communicate as an alternative to destructive behavior. (CK)

Examines the effect of varying the quality of evidence in a persuasive message. Concludes that, while good evidence may not be necessary to persuasive communication, poor evidence is detrimental. (PD)

Provides research data supporting the hypothesis that communication apprehension is negatively related to the amount of self-disclosure. (MH)

Cites numerous specific factors affecting student interpersonal skill achievement and cognitive achievement in interpersonal communication instruction noting instructional implications. (MH)

Compares the effectiveness of cognitive modification, systematic desensitization and speech preparation in the reduction of speech and general anxiety. Results indicate that the cognitive modification program is highly effective in reducing both types of anxiety. (MH)

Investigates the potential control strategies a persuader may use and the impact of situational differences on a persuader's strategic choice. (MH)

Details an investigation of student attitudes toward confidence testing in several undergraduate speech communication courses and concludes that students feel that this form of testing provides a better estimate of their knowledge than do conventional objective tests. (MH)