Interpersonal Communication and Mental Health Disorders provides an in-depth exploration of how mental disorders impact communication, with a focus on aligning the broad array of existing literature into a single, coherent resource. The book delves into the various ways that conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia can affect interpersonal relationships and communication behaviors, illuminating how mental health plays a critical role in conversational and relational processes. The book examines topics including the initiation and conclusion of interactions, conversational goals, listening and comprehension, self-disclosure, power dynamics, family communication patterns, and the importance of culture in communication. By outlining the nuanced interactions and subtleties of non-verbal cues like gaze, facial expressions, and body language, this text helps readers better understand the intricate relationship between mental health and communication. Interpersonal Communication and Mental Health Disorders is ideal for courses related to mental health communication, psychology of communication, and interpersonal dynamics. The content is suitable for both undergraduate and graduate-level studies, providing students, mental health practitioners, and educators with access to a wealth of information on a topic that spans across disciplines and is essential to the fabric of social interaction.
Isabelle Bauman is an associate professor in the Department of Communication, Media, Journalism, and Film at Missouri State University. Her area of specialization is in mental health communication, particularly as it applies to interpersonal relationships. Dr. Bauman holds Ph.D. and M.A. degrees in communication from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, an M.S. in counseling from Missouri State University, and a B.A. from the University of Puget Sound.
"This is probably the most powerful introduction I have ever read, particularly for a communication text. I appreciate how the text lays the groundwork from the beginning that this is a going to be a different course, more of a psychological approach to communication rather than the dry theoretical approach. High levels of self-disclosure are exemplified putting the reader/student at ease with their own levels of self-disclosure. I am so interested in bringing this course to my college but particularly this text as it follows a "patient," the author, through their journey of mental health and using communication to find balance and centeredness in their life. Impressed with this text. Miki Bacino, Rock Valley College, Department of Communication "[This book] is a well-organized, solid overview of the research on various mental health disorders (as defined by the DSM) and human communication (how they influence one another) [...] To my knowledge, there is nothing else like it and this is an area that is growing. I'm grateful this is being published. [...] [Bauman's] model really clarifies for the reader how these components work together, what the focus of the book will be, and provides a sense of what level the materials will be presented in. More importantly, the model is a solid one that addresses all primary facets of the communication-mental health dynamic. [...] The sheer amount of information here is impressive. The applications to mental health are strong and focused. Nothing seemed tangential, and this text serves as a good overview of the area of mental health and communication." Traci L. Anderson, St. Cloud State University, Department of Communication Studies "Professor Bauman should be congratulated for sharing her personal stories which can be very impactful in the learning environment. She provided extensive research, and her method of presentation is very comprehensive, which would be very helpful to students specializing in psychology or graduate level courses. [...] The foundational concepts were presented in the beginning chapters and were inclusive as each of the presenting disorders were presented. [...] Very important considerations of culture were included. Questions for reflection and to develop critical thinking are very beneficial, including the resources provided for individuals seeking help." Joyce Welliver, Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions
