Communication Under the Microscope: The Theory and Practice of Microanalysis

Social interaction in recent years has become the focus of systematic scientific research in a wide variety of academic disciplines. In Communication under the Microscope, Peter Bull shows how communication has become an object of study in its own right, which can be dissected in the finest detail through the use of film and recording technology. In so doing he provides a clear and valuable introduction into the theory and practice of microanalysis. Bull argues that microanalysis is both a distinctive methodology and a distinctive way of thinking about communication. He then focuses on the two principal elements of face-to-face communication: speech and non-verbal behaviour. Communication in particular social contexts is also addressed with related chapters on gender and politics. Finally, the practical aspects of microanalysis are discussed. This unique and thorough review of microanalysis integrates different approaches and draws together research literature which is often diverse and disparate. Presented in a clear and focused style, this book will be of interest to psychologists, social scientists and all students and researchers in the field of communication. Communication is central to many aspects of human life, yet it has only recently become the focus of systematic scientific investigation within a wide variety of academic disciplines. Communication has now become an object of study in its own right, and can be dissected in the finest detail with the use of recording technology (film, audiotape and videotape). This approach has become known as 'microanalysis', and forms the principal theme of Communication under the Microscope.

Table of Contents:
Acknowledgements and Preface. Microanalysis of Communication. Nonverbal Communication. Conversation. Speech. Gender and Communication. Political Communication. Practical Applications. References

About the Author :
Dr Peter Bull is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychology at York University. He has over 40 academic publications, principally on the detailed microanalysis of interpersonal communication.

Review :
'Considering that the book is primarily conceived as a literature review, its main merit may reside in the clear and concise exposition of a wide variety of contributions. Another main merit is that the author provides a fair account of contesting approaches and schools. ... The book will not only appeal to scholars and practitioners, but also to students who may be pleased to find it included in the reading lists attached to their courses.' - The European Bulletin of Social Psychology 'Peter Bull has performed a valuable service by bringing together a range of approaches to the ways in which people create and share information together.' - Steve Reicher, University of St. Andrews 'Considering that the book is primarily conceived as a literature review, its main merit may reside in the clear and concise exposition of a wide variety of contributions. Another main merit is that the author provides a fair account of contesting approaches and schools. ... The book will not only appeal to scholars and practitioners, but also to students who may be pleased to find it included in the reading lists attached to their courses.' - The European Bulletin of Social Psychology 'I have read all of this twice and have decided it is a good book. ... Blessedly compact, readily read ... and, once one accepts the domain it does tackle, thorough.' - Social Psychological Review 'This is a novel text in that it brings together a range of approaches and accompanying textual analyses to highlight the 'micro' approach to the study of communication. There is a need for a book such as this.' - Owen Hargie, University of Ulster 'Peter Bull has performed a valuable service by bringing together a range of approaches to the ways in which people create and share information together...We need to integrate the high level insights of social psychological theory with the microanalysis of how people communicate and Peter Bull's book helps us along that path.' - Steven Reicher, University of St. Andrews