Illinois State University’s William Cupach, School of Communication,
and co-author Brian Spitzberg of San Diego State University have just
released the second edition of “The Dark Side of Interpersonal
Communication.” This work is the fourth volume in the Dark Side series
co-edited or co-authored by Cupach and Spitzberg.
Published by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Publishers, the volume has new content addressing ways in which dysfunctional interpersonal communication can exhibit positive elements and seemingly constructive communication can be problematic. According to Cupach, the book showcases the work of internationally renowned scholars on such topics as uncertainty and secrecy in relationships; negotiating identity in cyberspace; criticism and complaining; teasing and bullying, infidelity and relational transgressions; revenge; and adolescent physical aggression towards parents.
Cupach says collectively the works demonstrate the functional ambivalence of interpersonal communication and illustrate the need to integrate the darker and brighter sides of communication in order to adequately account for human experience.
