One of the Persistent Themes in the Theories Examined in a First

Essay

One of the persistent themes in the theories examined in A First Look is that people communicate more effectively when they become highly aware of the specific communicative processes they are involved in. Many of the theoretical perspectives in this book seek to replace natural and habitual modes of speaking and listening with rational, more analytical approaches that can make us better able to negotiate the challenges of communication. What theories do you believe should be included on such a list? As a group, what seem to be their principal characteristics, as well as their strengths and weaknesses?