Addresses a recurring inconsistency in the epistemic interpretation of the Family Communication Patterns scales. Reviews the traditional linkage to coorientation and proposes a more direct interpretation. Results confirm that subjects associate the scales with underlying dimensions of conformity or control and openness or supportiveness. Provides…

Introduces this special issue on the role of affect in persuading and informing. Discusses conceptualizing affect, affect and message processing, affect and message production, and operationalizing affect. (SR)

Asserts that discussing micro-macro issues is central to developing communication research and that theory should be developed and tested through research designs that span the traditional domains of social science. States that this special issue of "Communication Research" explores interpersonal interaction and the interaction of the…

Submits that interinstitutional research in mass communication exhibits complex, interrelated problems regarding tactics, sampling, data reliability, and causality. Confronts difficulties and suggests ways to deal with them. Draws on storytelling and cognitive aesthetics to broaden the criteria for judging research. Encourages ambitious…