Reports three studies designed to (1) validate the conceptualization of relational communication advanced by J. K. Burgoon and J. L. Hale, which identifies 12 conceptually distinct but interrelated message themes central to defining interpersonal relationships, and (2) produce a reliable measurement instrument. Presents reliability and validity…

Argues existing theory and research on computer-mediated communication (CMC) provide a limited view of information-seeking behavior. Proposes a conceptual model for its examination via CMC and new media. Discusses strategies for seeking social information, and identifies factors influencing their selection from alternatives. Describes two…

Considers how various theories of nonverbal adaptation feature behavioral valence and degree of behavioral change as critical elements affecting whether changes in nonverbal intimacy are met with reciprocity or compensation among 100 undergraduate student romantic dyads. Makes comparisons across five conditions: very low intimacy, low intimacy,…

Offers a review of literature on the construct of dominance from sociobiological, psychological, and interpersonal perspectives. Advances a broader conceptualization of dominance that focuses on dominance as an interpersonal communication construct. Reports two alternative measurement strategies and initial validational work on undergraduate…

Two experiments examined nonverbal behavior patterns and relational communication perceptions associated with communication reticence. In the first experiment, pairs of friends and pairs of strangers engaged in nine-minute discussions. Subjects were rated by their interaction partners and by trained observers. Results showed that as their level of…

Presents a critique and further tests of a model proposed by Burgoon on the effects of violating conversational distance expectations. Based on the results and critique, it is concluded that the model needs revision to include the interactive effects of reward and distance. (JMF)

The role of two nonverbal variables, conversational distance and physical self-presentation, were examined as potential sources of distraction and for their consequent effects on susceptibility to persuasion. The distraction literature was reviewed and synthesized into five propositions, which served as a starting point for predicting how…

These two experiments focus on nonverbal behaviors that might have meaning in defining the relationship between partners and on the broader relational connotations produced by a reticent person's verbal and nonverbal communication style. (PD)

Expands an earlier model of personal space expectations and their violations by specifying primitive terms, constitutive definitions, and the propositional logic underlying the model. (MH)

Based on the assumptions that relational messages are multidimensional and that they are largely communicated by nonverbal cues, this experiment manipulated five nonverbal cues--eye contact, proximity, body lean, smiling, and touch--to determine what meanings they convey along four relational message dimensions: emotionality/arousal/composure,…

Violations of interpersonal spacing expectations have been demonstrated to influence a receiver's perception of the credibility, attraction, and influence of an initiator of such violations. Recent research on distraction and on personal space points to several potential strategies a persuader may adopt when trying to influence another individual.…

A model of conversational distance violations that claims that these violations mediate communication outcomes such as source credibility, source attraction, and learning was examined in a study involving 136 undergraduate students. The students were tested in small group settings using eight confederates, four rated highly and four lowly in…