Includes bibliographical references and indexes

Introduction to the family -- Framework for family communication -- Family theories -- Communication patterns and the creation of family meanings -- Symbolic meanings and relational maintenance, family rituals, currencies, and stories -- Intimacy and closeness within families -- Communication and family roles and types -- Power, influence, and decision making -- Communication and family conflict -- Communication and family stress, developmental issues -- Family communication and unpredictable stress -- Contextual dimensions of family communication -- Improving family communication