Following in the same tradition as two other edited collections that revolutionized interpersonal communication research (G.R. Miller's Explorations in Interpersonal Communication and M.E. Roloff & G.R. Miller's Interpersonal Processes) New Directions in Interpersonal Communication presents the latest research being done today and reflects the changes that have occurred in interpersonal communication research during the past 18 years.

A combination of established and newer scholars, as well as 'boundary spanners' (those who are applying interpersonal theories and concepts to areas such as family, health, intercultural, organizational, and mediated communication) illustrate the wealth and breadth of this area of study and research.