Interpersonal Communication Theory Research and Analysis Paper

Purpose:

To research and apply interpersonal communication theory and concepts in a constructive, critical manner by researching and formulating an in-depth (constructive and critical) analysis of a particular interpersonal perspective and applying the theory to an interpersonal relationship.

Requirements:

This paper should be 7-10 pages in length, excluding references. You are to select an interpersonal theory, model, or construct (such as uncertainty reduction theory, social penetration model, or affinity-seeking strategies), and apply and analyze the theory in relationship to interpersonal communication. The paper should have three major sections:

1) section one should clearly define interpersonal communication (your definition should include assumptions, properties, functions, etc.) and clearly establish a perspective of interpersonal communication (e.g., situational, qualitative, functional, relational).

2) section two should compare and contrast your definition to the functional approach of Cody and Canary presented in class (this section should include advantages and shortcomings of your definition as well as distinguish your conceptualization of interpersonal communication within a mechanistic, psychological, interactionist, or systems perspective; If you choose to adopt the functional perspective, you will need to compare and contrast it to a different perspective.

3) the third section should identify (describe in detail) the theory you have selected in relationship to your definition, assumptions, functions, advantages, and disadvantages (this section should be comprehensive and provide more than basic information regarding the theory you have selected). Be sure to provide at least one example of an interpersonal relationship to illustrate your perspective.

You will be graded on how well you define and apply the concept or theory to your conceptualization of interpersonal communication. The use of outside sources and references is mandatory. The expectations of this paper include: solid organization (introduction, body, conclusion, and thesis statement), correct grammar and no spelling errors. All papers must be typed. NO HANDWRITTEN PAPERS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Points: This paper is worth 200 points--approximately 18% of your total class grade.

"A" Paper

• *10 or more outside sources
• *use of exceptional grammar
• *no spelling mistakes
• *critical and insightful
• analysis of interpersonal communication theory
• *paper written using APA or MLA format

"B" Paper

• *insightful analysis of theory
• *6 outside resources
• *solid organization
• *proper grammar
• *few grammatical errors
  
  "C" Paper

• *length requirements are met
• *appropriate theory has been explained and applied to an interpersonal relationship.
• *some grammatical errors
• *3 outside sources are used
  
  "D" Paper

• *Paper fails to meet one or more requirements for a "C" paper
• *Excessive grammatical and/or spelling errors
  
  "E" Paper

• *Paper does not follow assignment
• *Paper is plagiarized or unoriginal work