Proposes the metatheoretical stance of skeptical pluralism as a means of ordering and integrating knowledge of human communication. Uses a typology of modern philosophies suggested by Richard McKeon to identify four different conceptions of communication and science (phenomenal, operational, nationalistic, and phenomenological). (MM)

Discusses current themes in communication research. Claims that this research offers an increasingly sophisticated view of journalism as a reflection not of an objective reality, but of political-economic power and sociocultural conflict. Includes an example of an imaginary symposium and a strategy for reframing the journalistic quest for truth.…

Offers evidence that brain hemispheres process information differently, and that semantics influence hemispheric processing. Suggests directions for research on message style, source perception, and threat perception. (MS)

Provides a personal, historical reflection on speech communication, centering on convention activities. (PD)

Notes that the methodologies and findings of communication studies speak to a number of important concerns in feminist theory and research, and that feminist theory and research offer a great deal to communication studies. (FL)

The editor of the NDT transcripts since 1978 confirms statistically Professor Southworth's observations about the trend of debaters toward rapid speaking rates and garbled, incomprehensive reading of large quantities of evidence; also agrees that decisions ought to be rendered promptly after the debate. (PD)

Presents a method to determine how signs in American Sign Language are recognized by signers. The method uses natural settings and avoids common artificialities found in prior work. A pilot study is described involving language research with Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in which the method was successfully used. (SED)

Noting the lack of business communication research, the authors conclude that a mind-set may exist toward quantitative research. They define and advance qualitative research techniques as an alternative. (PD)

Reports on a survey of participant attitudes toward National Debate Tournament rules on NDT Committee authority, topicality standards, qualification methods, and disclosing decisions. Findings suggest that attitudes should be measured before NDT rules are adapted. (PD)

Reports on two studies which explore the communication strategies that people employ to terminate relationships. Concludes that two variables--relationship closeness and perceived cause of the relationship demise--affect the disengager's use of termination strategies. For both variables, the critical difference appears to be in the use of…

Studies the use of process instructions which explain to the jury not only the law but also provide a step-by-step process for the jury to follow. Concludes that results, in terms of verdict, do not differ with the use of process or standard instructions, but that less time was needed to reach a verdict using the process instructions. (JMF)

Focuses on skills necessary for effective negotiation planning. Argues that the information processing tendencies of high self-monitors make them adept at negotiation planning. Extends existing work by relating self-monitoring to plan generation, enactment, and consequences. Indicates that self-monitoring is related to prenegotiation goal…

Examines relationships among impression-management messages, evaluations of reward allocations (fairness and responsibility), and reaction to rewards (anger, approval of manager, and overall job satisfaction). Finds that impression-management messages directly influence fairness and responsibility, and indirectly influence anger and approval. (SR)

States that interpersonal conflicts in the workplace frequently involve conversations with coworkers and outsiders. Examines informal third-party discussions in the workplace, as described by 396 professionals attending graduate business programs and executive seminars. Indicates that conflict intensity and relative power are likely to affect the…

Examines influences on individuals' affectionate behaviors and their expectations for appropriate affectionate behavior, within the context of close platonic friendships. Finds support for predictions that, with constant levels of relational closeness, biological sex composition of the dyad will influence actual affectionate behavior, perceived…