1. Axioms of Communication Meaning in people, not words Process Dynamic Irreversible Symbolic Req. negotiation We cannot “not” communicate

2. Metacommunication

3. Family Studies Discipline? Profession?

4. Defining Features Ongoing over time –Continuous exchanges shape Meaningful to lives –Vested interest, resources involv., health outcomes, etc. Interdependence –Decisions, plans, emotions, other R’s  all e/affected –Emotional contagion –Behavioral – affects actions of both parties Involvmnt by unique indiv’s –No one can replace any part Systemic in nature –Bigger than sum of parts