Family Communication: Theories and Research combines the topical coverage of an overview text with the diversity of stance of an anthology, providing both breadth and depth in the field.   In addition to overviews of research and theory, most chapters include research exemplars written by prominent and rising scholars in family communication.

Diversity is also a focus throughout the text, with a variety of family types, perspectives, and experiences included to expose the reader to contemporary family dynamics. Family communication research typically proceeds from either a social scientific or humanistic/interpretive perspective.  This book includes research and theory from both perspectives, thus enabling use by readers that particularly embrace either option.