Interpersonal Communication

by Steven A. Beebe

This book is based on the premise that at the heart of quality interpersonal relationship is a focus on others. A focus on others rather than yourself remains the hallmark of most faith movements in the world. Yet this book is not about religion. It's about how you relate to others in interpersonal situations. To be other oriented, you need not abandon your own thoughts, feelings and behavior; an other oriented person is self-aware as well as aware of others. Becoming other oriented is instead the mindful process of considering the thoughts, needs, feelings and values of others, rather than focusing exclusive on oneself. The importance of being other-oriented was the foundation of the first four editions of interpersonal Communication: Relating to Others, and it continues as the central theme of the fifth edition.

Genres: Nonfiction, Textbooks, School, Reference, Psychology, Communication

Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Jimyip · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book states a lot of so-called "common-sense" theory like "thinking from others' perspective before saying", "communication is the key to happy marriage", it also gives insight to me on how to deal with conflicts effectively, makes me rethink on how I have been treating my parents and friends.

All in all, this is an enjoyable book to read, not having some arcane theories, its examples are easy to follow.

[Barbara Ixba · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book looking for lesson plan ideas for my Oral Interpretation class & it definately delivered. I was hoping that a study into interpersonal communication would help my students to understand why we share information with others and why & how individuals react to others. I did get that information presented in an easy to read format, but I also got some great ideas for blocking and nonverbal communication. This was an excellent informational read.

[Goodwick · Rating 1 out of 5]

Really poor. Basic common-sense elements are okay, but many concepts are questionable and poorly referenced, especially broad generalisations about differences between the genders. Several passages are extremely skewed to give power to corporations and employers over employees - one part unflinchingly describes "complaining about your boss to your co-workers" as a form of bullying, and in the next sentence describes a satisfactory resolution to this situation of "complaining to your boss".

There are some really toxic and troubling assertions buried amongst basic, unenlightened, common-sense.

[Hedy Harper (Erin Hanton) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my textbook for my Interpersonal Communication class. As the class followed the book pretty closely, it’s difficult to separate the class from the book. I learned a lot and think basically everyone could benefit from this. Not a lot of people really pay attention to their communication. I did enjoy the interactive version with videos via Pearson and am not sure I would have given the book as high a rating without it.

[Edgar · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book

[Indya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for school and it helped me understand how communication worked so I wouldn't jump to conclusions about the way people spoke to me. I understand a lot more now and it helps with my friends and family issues.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very easy to understand textbook with applicable information for interpersonal relationships on all levels.

[naught · Rating 1 out of 5]

I would rather have eaten broken glass than read this book.