Interpersonal Communication: Relating to Others

by Steven A. Beebe, Susan J. Beebe, Mark V. Redmond

This book offers a blend of theory and skills that readers can use to become "other-oriented"- mindfully aware of considering the thoughts, needs, and values of others. Fueled by the authors' conviction that "skills inform principles; principles inform skills," Interpersonal Communication: Relating to Others maintains a careful balance between theoretical and skills-oriented material. This book integrates an emphasis on diversity with theoretical and skills discussions. Examples are drawn from a variety of age and ethnic groups, and special boxes focus on gender and diversity issues. A chapter on intercultural communication supplements this integral material by relating it to the "other-oriented" approach. For anyone interested in improving their interpersonal communication, or understanding the topic better.

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

448 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Jimyip]

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]

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]

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)]

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]

great book

[Indya]

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]

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

[naught]

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