The Influence of Communication on Physiology and Health

There is a significant amount of research that substantiates the connection between social support/relationships and the development, onset, and/or recovery of several physical diseases/illnesses. Research has shown, for example, that an unhappy marriage can increase the likelihood of becoming ill by 35% while stressful communication can lead to an increase in cardiovascular reactivity which in turn increases the risk of coronary heart disease and premature mortality. This volume provides a comprehensive overview of the influences of communication on physiology and physical health status occurring in a variety of contexts, from families, interpersonal relationships, and public speaking to sport fandom, affection, fear, and the escalation of conflict. It offers a broad and up-to-date review of the relevant literature in this area of study.

James M. Honeycutt (PhD, University of Illinois) is Distinguished Professor of Communication Studies at Louisiana State University. Chris R. Sawyer (PhD, University of North Texas) is Professor of Communication at Texas Christian University. Shaughan A. Keaton (PhD, Louisiana State University) is Assistant Professor of Communication at Young Harris College.