Investigating communication in organizational and interpersonal relationships, scholars focus on how people navigate contemporary contexts to support well-being and personal and professional success.

Faculty in this area use quantitative and qualitative social science methods to better understand human interaction, while also drawing on humanistic perspectives to critique social structures and settings. Work in this area examines patterns of communication in workplaces, communities, small groups, families, friendships, and romantic relationships.

By exploring both the bright and dark sides of interaction, this area demonstrates how communication helps address problems, manage tensions, and sustain healthy relationships and organizations.