This second edition is a timely revision of this successful book. In twenty chapters, this book offers a unique look at the field of speech communication, combining thorough coverage of all primary areas of the discipline with an understanding of its evolution from the past to the present and its directions for the future. This book combines a competency approach to building basic communication skills with a practical introduction to the theory of the field. Readers will be shown how to communicate effectively in a variety of settings including the group, the interview, the public forum, the family, the classroom, and the media. This comprehensive introduction to the field also examines significant topics such as technology, health and lifespan communication, gender communication, free speech, and performance studies. For professionals working in the field of speech communication.