Interracial Communication: Theory Into Practice

Abstract

Preface I. Foundations for Interracial Communication Theory and Practice 1. Studying Interracial Communication Defining Interracial Communication Why Study Interracial Communication? Acknowledging Racial Locations Setting the Stage for Discussions of Race Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 2. The History of Race History of Racial Classification Economic and Political Expansion and Race The Biological Foundations of Race The Sociopolitical Construction of Race The Significance of Race Today Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 3. The Power of Language, Labels, and Naming The Power of Language The Power of Labels Nonverbal Communication Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 4. Racial and Ethnic Identity Negotiation Approaches to Studying Identity Focus on Racial/Ethnic Identity Cultural Identity Development Models Communication Theory of Identity Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 5. Recognizing Multiple Self-Identities and Other Identities Acknowledging Multiple Cultural Identities Potentially Salient Aspects of Cultural Identity Intersections of Race/Ethnicity, Gender, and SES Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 6. Theoretical Approaches to Studying Interracial Communication Interracial Communication Models Theorizing Interracial Communication Understanding Different Forms of Racialized Communication Theorizing Satisfying Communication Understanding Interracial Communication Processes Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning II. Interracial Communication in Specific Contexts 7. Interracial Friendships The Significance of Interracial Friendships History and Interracial Friendships Six Orders of Contact Understanding the Contact Hypothesis Educational Institutions as a Site for Interracial Friendships Effective Communication Strategies Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 8. Interracial Romantic Relationships Current Trends in Interracial Romantic Relationships The History of Interracial Romantic Relationships Mental Models of Interracial Romantic Relationships Theories on Interracial Relationships Social Forces that Influence Interracial Romantic Relationships Creating New Mental Models Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 9. Interracial Communication in the Context of Organizations Organizational Communication Understanding Organizational Theories Organizational Culture Racializing the Organizational Context General Organizational Principles Practicing Diversity Management Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 10. Interracial Conflict Contextual Sources of Conflict Conflict Styles Thinking Critically About Existing Research A Case Study in Interracial Unity Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 11. Race/Ethnicity, Interracial Communication, and the Mass Media The Importance of the Mass Media Mass Media Representations of Racialized Others Racialized Television Viewing Habits The Internet as a Mass Media Venue Implications and Consequences of Media Images Fostering an Enlightened Racism Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning 12. Moving From the Theoretical to the Practical Identifying Potential Barriers to Interracial Communication Setting the Stage for Effective Interracial Communication Fostering Interracial Dialogue Conclusion Opportunities for Extended Learning Glossary References Author Index Subject Index About the Authors