Exploring Communication Theory: Making Sense of Us

Continuing its engaging and readable approach, this second edition presents an overview of the major theories within the discipline of communication studies inclusive of the three major paradigms of social scientific, interpretive, and critical. Each member of the author team writes from his or her area of expertise, giving readers further insight into how the theory is applied to research within communication studies. With extensive pedagogical features, the text underscores key concepts and links them to students’ own communication studies scholarship and everyday lives. Key updates for this edition include updated examples and discussions around theories to give students a deeper understanding; explorations of Black Lives Matter and intersectionality; and new pedagogical features in line with Bloom’s taxonomy. This book is ideal as a core text for undergraduate courses in communication theory. Online resources also accompany the text: an instructor manual, test bank, lecture slides, and author introduction videos. Please visit to access the materials.