The Handbook of Communication Skills

The Handbook of Communication Skills is recognised as one of the core texts in the field of communication, offering a state-of-the-art overview of this rapidly evolving field of study. This comprehensively revised and updated fourth edition arrives at a time when the realm of interpersonal communication has attracted immense attention. Recent research showing the potency of communication skills for success in many walks of life has stimulated considerable interest in this area, both from academic researchers, and from practitioners whose day-to-day work is so dependent on effective social skills.

Covering topics such as non-verbal behaviour, listening, negotiation and persuasion, the book situates communication in a range of different contexts, from interacting in groups to the counselling interview. Based on the core tenet that interpersonal communication can be conceptualised as a form of skilled activity, and including new chapters on cognitive behavioural therapy and coaching and mentoring, this new edition also places communication in context with advances in digital technology.

The Handbook of Communication Skills represents the most significant single contribution to the literature in this domain. Providing a rich mine of information for the neophyte and practising professional, it is perfect for use in a variety of contexts, from theoretical mainstream communication modules on degree programmes to vocational courses in health, business and education. With contributions from an internationally renowned range of scholars, this is the definitive text for students, researchers and professionals alike.

“'The 4thedition of the Handbook once again offers an impressive, comprehensive, up-to-date and relevant interpersonal communication text, engaging readers through both a theoretical and an applied lens. The addition of the Mentoring and Coaching and Cognitive Behavioural Communication Skills chapters support the under-pinning philosophy of the book, making it a must read for any communication scholar as well as those in health sciences and business and management. The cross-disciplinary nature of the book entices and educates students to consider interpersonal communication across all facets of life, work and beyond.' - Dr. Paula O'Kane, University of Otago, New Zealand 'Professor Owen Hargie is well known and well cited worldwide for his expertise on the topic of communication skill. His Handbook of Communication Skills has become a standard work in this field, and this latest revised 4thedition is most welcome. Given its wide-ranging focus on theory, research and practice, it will be an invaluable resource not only for academics, researchers and students, but also for professional practitioners. I have no hesitation in giving this book my strongest recommendation.' - Professor Peter Bull, Universities of York & Salford, UK”

'The 4th edition of the Handbook once again offers an impressive, comprehensive, up-to-date and relevant interpersonal communication text, engaging readers through both a theoretical and an applied lens. The addition of the Mentoring and Coaching and Cognitive Behavioural Communication Skills chapters support the under-pinning philosophy of the book, making it a must read for any communication scholar as well as those in health sciences and business and management. The cross-disciplinary nature of the book entices and educates students to consider interpersonal communication across all facets of life, work and beyond.' - Dr. Paula O'Kane, University of Otago, New Zealand

‘Professor Owen Hargie is well known and well cited worldwide for his expertise on the topic of communication skill. His Handbook of Communication Skills has become a standard work in this field, and this latest revised 4th edition is most welcome. Given its wide-ranging focus on theory, research and practice, it will be an invaluable resource not only for academics, researchers and students, but also for professional practitioners. I have no hesitation in giving this book my strongest recommendation.’ - Professor Peter Bull, Universities of York & Salford, UK

Owen Hargie is Emeritus Professor of Communication at Ulster University. He is Associate Fellow, and honorary life member, of the British Psychological Society, and an elected member of the prestigious Royal Norwegian Society of Sciences and Letters. He was conferred with the award of a Senior Distinguished Research Fellowship by Ulster University in recognition of his prolific research contributions over four decades.

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