This Handbook chronicles fifty years of efforts by clinicians, medical scientists, and social science researchers to closely examine communication during medical interviews. Fifty-two chapters have been integrated to provide readers with a diverse sampling of significant contributions during this extended period. The book is a rich tapestry of fundamental questions, innovative methodological approaches, well-reasoned arguments, insightful findings, and grounded suggestions for improving communication during medical interviews. It includes investigations designed to explicate and resolve communication dilemmas, envision therapeutic possibilities, and create hopeful yet realistic futures for patient-provided collaborations and partnerships.