Graduate Program in Communication Studies

Interaction and Social Influence

A concentration in Interaction and Social Influence employs empirical research methods to study the verbal and nonverbal processes associated with relationship development and maintenance, persuasion, conflict management, decision-making and community building. Working within this concentration, you may choose to specialize in areas such as relational, group, workplace, or health communication. Interaction and Social Influence employs empirical research methods to analyze communication. You will develop substantial expertise in empirical methods and statistical analysis. Within this area, teaching and research in the department includes:

• Face-to-face communication
• Persuasion, conflict management, and bargaining and negotiation.
• Interaction within the family and other intimate contexts
• Leadership, decision-making in small groups, and the study of self-help and community action groups
• Interactions that influence a person's psychological and physical well being, including encounters in healthcare environments, the workplace, and the family.

(As of Fall 2011, ISI has suspended new student admissions into the program.)