This book was written to be the primary text for courses in interpersonal communication. It is for college and university students of all ages who are seeking research-based principles and skills to enhance their interpersonal relationships. The ideas in this text are based on decades of communication research and reflect the latest thinking about how human beings relate to each other. Principles and skills are balanced to help students enhance their own command of communication skills, and give them insights into why people communicate as they do in interpersonal situations.Key elements: other-oriented approach, emphasis on diversity, focus on relationships, expanded coverage of technology and balanced discussion of principles and skills.