Using a relational approach to the study of interpersonal communication, this text provides comprehensive coverage of popular theories and concepts in interpersonal communication. The research base of the book draws heavily from communication, but also emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the study of personal relationships.

The book focuses on communication within close relationships and is organized using a developmental approach: The early chapters focus on processes that shape initial interaction and relational escalation (with the caveat that some of these processes—e.g., self disclosure, uncertainty—also play important roles in established relationships); The middle chapters examine issues related to maintaining a loving, fair, and intimate relationship; The latter chapters focus on challenges relational partners face, including coping with privacy needs, relational transgressions, and conflict. The last chapter is on relationship endings.

The book includes research from various disciplines, such as social psychology and family studies, but the primary focus is communication research.