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Communication Research: Asking Questions, Finding Answers

2007, Tourism Culture & Communication

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Communication Research

Doing communication research.

Students often believe that researchers are well organized, meticulous, and academic as they pursue their research projects. The reality of research is that much of it is a hit-and-miss endeavor. Albert Einstein provided wonderful insight to the messy nature of research when he said, “If we knew what it was we were doing, it would not be called research, would it?” Because a great deal of Communication research is still exploratory, we are continually developing new and more sophisticated methods to better understand how and why we communicate. Think about all of the advances in communication technologies (snapchat, instagram, etc.) and how quickly they come and go. Communication research can barely keep up with the ongoing changes to human communication.

Researching something as complex as human communication can be an exercise in creativity, patience, and failure. Communication research, while relatively new in many respects, should follow several basic principles to be effective. Similar to other types of research, Communication research should be systematic, rational, self-correcting, self-reflexive, and creative to be of use (Babbie; Bronowski; Buddenbaum; Novak; Copi; Peirce; Reichenbach; Smith; Hughes & Hayhoe).

Seven Basic Steps of Research

While research can be messy, there are steps we can follow to avoid some of the pitfalls inherent with any research project. Research doesn’t always work out right, but we do use the following guidelines as a way to keep research focused, as well as detailing our methods so other can replicate them. Let’s look at seven basic steps that help us conduct effective research.

Graphic illustration of the 7 steps: Identify focus of research; develop a research question; define key terms; select research method; establish a sample population; gather and analyze data; interpret and share results

Identify a focus of research . To conduct research, the first thing you must do is identify what aspect of human communication interests you and make that the focus of inquiry. Most Communication researchers examine things that interest them; such as communication phenomena that they have questions about and want answered. For example, you may be interested in studying conflict between romantic partners. When using a deductive approach to research, one begins by identifying a focus of research and then examining theories and previous research to begin developing and narrowing down a research question.
Develop a research question(s) . Simply having a focus of study is still too broad to conduct research, and would ultimately end up being an endless process of trial and error. Thus, it is essential to develop very specific research questions. Using our example above, what specific things would you want to know about conflict in romantic relationships? If you simply said you wanted to study conflict in romantic relationships, you would not have a solid focus and would spend a long time conducting your research with no results. However, you could ask, “Do couples use different types of conflict management strategies when they are first dating versus after being in a relationship for a while? It is essential to develop specific questions that guide what you research. It is also important to decide if an answer to your research question already exists somewhere in the plethora of research already conducted. A review of the literature available at your local library may help you decide if others have already asked and answered a similar question. Another convenient resource will be your university’s online database. This database will most likely provide you with resources of previous research through academic journal articles, books, catalogs, and various kinds of other literature and media.
Define key terms . Using our example, how would you define the terms conflict, romantic relationship, dating, and long-term relationship? While these terms may seem like common sense, you would be surprised how many ways people can interpret the same terms and how particular definitions shape the research. Take the term long-term relationship, for example, what are all of the ways this can be defined? People married for 10 or more years? People living together for five or more years? Those who identify as being monogamous? It is important to consider populations who would be included and excluded from your study based on a particular definition and the resulting generalizability of your findings. Therefore, it is important to identify and set the parameters of what it is you are researching by defining what the key terms mean to you and your research. A research project must be fully operationalized , specifically describing how variables will be observed and measured. This will allow other researchers an opportunity to repeat the process in an attempt to replicate the results. Though more importantly, it will provide additional understanding and credibility to your research.

Communication Research Then

Wilber schramm – the modern father of communication.

Although many aspects of the Communication discipline can be dated to the era of the ancient Greeks, and more specifically to individuals such as Aristotle or Plato, Communication Research really began to develop in the 20th century. James W. Tankard Jr. (1988) states in the article, Wilbur Schramm: Definer of a Field that, “Wilbur Schramm (1907-1987) probably did more to define and establish the field of Communication research and theory than any other person” (p. 1). In 1947 Wilbur Schramm went to the University of Illinois where he founded the first Institute of Communication Research. The Institute’s purpose was, “to apply the methods and disciplines of the social sciences (supported, where necessary, by the fine arts and natural sciences) to the basic problems of press, radio and pictures; to supply verifiable information in those areas of communications where the hunch, the tradition, the theory and thumb have too often ruled; and by so doing to contribute to the better understanding of communications and the maximum use of communications for the public good” (p. 2).

Select an appropriate research methodology . A methodology is the actual step-by-step process of conducting research. There are various methodologies available for researching communication. Some tend to work better than others for examining particular types of communication phenomena. In our example, would you interview couples, give them a survey, observe them, or conduct some type of experiment? Depending on what you wish to study, you will have to pick a process, or methodology, in order to study it. We’ll discuss examples of methodologies later in this chapter.
Establish a sample population or data set . It is important to decide who and what you want to study. One criticism of current Communication research is that it often relies on college students enrolled in Communication classes as the sample population. This is an example of convenience sampling. Charles Teddlie and Fen Yu write, “Convenience sampling involves drawing samples that are both easily accessible and willing to participate in a study” (78). One joke in our field is that we know more about college students than anyone else. In all seriousness, it is important that you pick samples that are truly representative of what and who you want to research. If you are concerned about how long-term romantic couples engage in conflict, (remember what we said about definitions) college students may not be the best sample population. Instead, college students might be a good population for examining how romantic couples engage in conflict in the early stages of dating.
Gather and analyze data . Once you have a research focus, research question(s), key terms, a method, and a sample population, you are ready to gather the actual data that will show you what it is you want to answer in your research question(s). If you have ever filled out a survey in one of your classes, you have helped a researcher gather data to be analyzed in order to answer research questions. The actual “doing” of your methodology will allow you to collect the data you need to know about how romantic couples engage in conflict. For example, one approach to using a survey to collect data is to consider adapting a questionnaire that is already developed. Communication Research Measures II: A Sourcebook is a good resource to find valid instruments for measuring many different aspects of human communication (Rubin et al.).

Communication Research Now

Communicating climate change through creativity.

Communicating climate change has been an increasingly important topic for the past number of years. Today we hear more about the issue in the media than ever. However, “the challenge of climate change communication is thought to require systematic evidence about public attitudes, sophisticated models of behaviour change and the rigorous application of social scientific research” (Buirski). In South Africa, schools, social workers, and psychologist have found ways to change the way young people and children learn about about the issue. Through creatively, “climate change is rendered real through everyday stories, performances, and simple yet authentic ideas through children and school teachers to create a positive social norm” (Buirski). By engaging children’s minds rather than bombarding them with information, we can capture their attention (Buirski).

Interpret and share results . Simply collecting data does not mean that your research project is complete. Remember, our research leads us to develop and refine theories so we have more sophisticated representations about how our world works. Thus, researchers must interpret the data to see if it tells us anything of significance about how we communicate. If so, we share our research findings to further the body of knowledge we have about human communication. Imagine you completed your study about conflict and romantic couples. Others who are interested in this topic would probably want to see what you discovered in order to help them in their research. Likewise, couples might want to know what you have found in order to help themselves deal with conflict better.

Although these seven steps seem pretty clear on paper, research is rarely that simple. For example, a master’s student conducted research for their Master’s thesis on issues of privacy, ownership and free speech as it relates to using email at work. The last step before obtaining their Master’s degree was to share the results with a committee of professors. The professors began debating the merits of the research findings. Two of the three professors felt that the research had not actually answered the research questions and suggested that the master’s candidate rewrite their two chapters of conclusions. The third professor argued that the author HAD actually answered the research questions, and suggested that an alternative to completely rewriting two chapters would be to rewrite the research questions to more accurately reflect the original intention of the study. This real example demonstrates the reality that, despite trying to account for everything by following the basic steps of research, research is always open to change and modification, even toward the end of the process.

Communication Research and You

Because we have been using the example of conflict between romantic couples, here is an example of communication in action by Thomas Bradbury, Ph.D regarding the study of conflict between romantic partners. What stands out to you? What would you do differently?

Which Conflicts Consume Couples the Most http://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/blogs/which-conflicts-consume-couples-most

Survey of Communication Study. Authored by : Scott T Paynton and Linda K Hahn. Provided by : Humboldt State University. Located at : https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Survey_of_Communication_Study/Preface . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike

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1.1: What is Communication Research?

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Lindsey Jo Hand, Erin Ryan, and Karen Sichler

Lindsey Jo Hand, Erin Ryan, and Karen Sichler
Kennesaw State University via GALILEO Open Learning Materials

When we consider rhetoric, the study of the art of persuasive speaking, the history of communication research can be traced back to the days of Aristotle. You will learn more about rhetoric in your public speaking and communication theory courses, so we won’t take a deep dive into it here, but the larger point is that humans have been interested in studying communication since 300 B.C. Modern communication research and efforts to define and “model” the process of communication, however, is typically traced back to the early 20th century.

Walter Lippmann’s (1922) book Public Opinion is a seminal piece in the early study of communication. Lippmann’s (1922) focus on communication and democracy might sound familiar to you; his objective was to highlight problems facing democracy by discussing how public opinion consists of “pictures inside people’s heads [that] do not automatically correspond with the world outside” (p. 19). He argued that people’s access to facts are often limited, thus public opinions are often misleading and inaccurate, but yet we still tend to collectively act upon them. John Dewey’s (1927) book The Public and its Problems took a similar view of the communication process, but he had a more optimistic view, “When communication occurs, all natural events are subject to reconsideration and revision; they are re-adapted to meet the requirements of conversation, whether it be public discourse or that preliminary discourse termed thinking” (p. 132). Both Lippmann and Dewey set the stage for future study of communication by highlighting its importance in social life, democracy, and community.

Upon the founding of the Annenberg School of Communication at the University of Pennsylvania in 1958, publisher and ambassador Walter Annenberg wrote:

"Every human advancement or reversal can be understood through communication. The right to free communication carries with it responsibility to respect the dignity of others – and this must be recognized as irreversible. Educating students to effectively communicate this message and to be of service to all people is the enduring mission of this school."

The scholars who helped establish the Annenberg School set the stage for the future of teaching and researching communication. Under George Gerbner, the second dean of the school from 1964 until 1989, the school moved communication research beyond either a strict medium (radio, television, speech) or professional training basis to a more theoretical understanding of communication. The mission of the Annenberg School at the University of Pennsylvania is to produce cutting-edge research, sharing the work to help expand the public’s and policy makers’ understanding of communication, educate graduate and undergraduate students to move forward the discipline as well as encourage students to be better consumers of communication.

Fields of Communication

For a comprehensive overview of the fields of communication (and career options for each category) visit https://www.communications-major.com/ . Reading through this list will help you understand the skills required in the communication professions, and you can discover which types of jobs appeal to you the most. Many of these fields overlap. Regardless of what career path you choose, you will need to be a skilled writer and speaker, understand digital technology, and develop the ability to analyze information and think critically. When you determine which path is a good fit for you, choose from one of the four majors in the School of Communication and Media:

Journalism and Emerging Media

( http://chss.kennesaw.edu/socm/programs/bsjem.php )

Whether you are navigating the media-rich culture as a critical thinker, learning to write and produce news and feature stories as a journalist, or are gaining hands-on experience in digital video and audio as a social media expert, Kennesaw State's Journalism and Emerging Media program offers endless possibilities.

Learn the latest industry trends from faculty members who are award-winning professionals, including reporters, editors and international correspondents at the Associated Press, the Atlanta JournalConstitution , CNN, NPR, commercial radio stations and various newspapers. The Journalism and Emerging Media major offers a professionally-focused, marketplace-relevant, and theoretically-rigorous program. It includes courses in news writing, media law, digital media production, sports reporting, investigative reporting, and community-based capstone experience. It encourages students to enroll in a forcredit internship.

Media and Entertainment

( http://chss.kennesaw.edu/socm/programs/bsmes.php )

The Media and Entertainment major invites students to explore the critical ways in which communication and converged media connect with and affect our lives, society, and culture. The program focuses on the forms and effects of media, including radio, film, television, print, and electronic media, and requires that students demonstrate basic digital media production skills. Our students are critically engaged with creative analysis, production, and research into traditional and emerging forms of media. The curriculum emphasizes media history, media institutions, theory and research, production, ethics, policy, management, and technology and their effects on contemporary life.

The program offers both theoretical and applied approaches to the study and production of media. We define “entertainment” as “any media or communication function that is used for entertainment purposes” when considering areas of study. Thus, the field of media and entertainment is very broad and includes everything from film, television, and radio pre-production, production, and post-production; to corporate, government, and non-profit communications and digital media production; to jobs in theater, music, museums, theme parks, sports, travel and tourism, and gaming.

Organizational and Professional Communication

( http://chss.kennesaw.edu/socm/programs/bsopc.php )

Organizational and Professional Communication professionals study the role of communication in increasing corporate productivity and employee satisfaction. KSU is the only Georgia institution offering an undergraduate concentration in Organizational and Professional Communication. Organizational and Professional Communication students learn the skills they need to develop employee training programs, training manuals, and employee handbooks. Students also conduct communication audits at area companies to measure employee satisfaction with company communication practices. Students often intern in corporate human resources or training and development departments.

Public Relations

( http://chss.kennesaw.edu/socm/programs/bspr.php )

The Public Relations major at Kennesaw State University offers a professionally-focused, marketplace-relevant, and theoretically-rigorous academic program for aspiring public relations communicators throughout Metro Atlanta and Northwest Georgia. Kennesaw State is one of only three universities in the state of Georgia to offer a specific major in the ever-evolving discipline of Public Relations. The major offers students a public relations education that includes public relations principles, case study analysis, public relations writing, crisis communication, graphic design for organizational publications, persuasion methods and strategies, and use of social media and other multimedia communication strategies in public relations. Internships and study tours to New York and Atlanta public relations agencies supplement the traditional classroom and online learning settings.

For a list of potential communication-based employers in the state of Georgia, check out this page: https://www.communications-major.com/georgia/

Professional Organizations

In the field of communication research, there are several regional, national, and international professional organizations for educators, students, and communication practitioners. Each organization has a code of ethics, or best practices, for the profession and for training and developing the next generation of researchers and professors. These nonprofit organizations hold conventions/ conferences where communication students and scholars come together to present research, have roundtable discussions, and discuss recent innovations in the field. Typically, these organizations have divisions and interest groups devoted to the various categories of scholarship that fall under the “communication” umbrella. Examples include divisions devoted specifically to journalism, public relations, mass communication and society, communication theory, advertising, health communication, technology, cultural and critical studies, history, law and policy, ethics, gender/women’s studies, entertainment studies, children and media, and communication education.

For a typical yearly conference, the organization puts out a “call for papers” online 3-6 months before the conference, and scholars upload their original research to the website into the division that best fits their research topic. Each paper is then reviewed by peers in that field (typically two or three reviewers) who score the paper on dimensions such as quality of writing, importance of the topic, soundness of methodology, and impact of findings. Papers that gain high scores are then slated for presentation at the conference. Some presentations are done on posters whereas others are orally presented to small groups, typically using a visual aid such as PowerPoint. Presenting at an academic conference is a great way to get feedback from peers in your field before attempting to publish your work in an academic journal. And aside from presenting or attending research sessions, conferences offer an opportunity to connect and network with fellow scholars in your field. Conferences also typically have a “job fair” where representatives from various universities interview prospective new professors for academic positions.

There are several well-known and well-respected professional communication organizations in the United States. The Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) is one of the largest organizations, holding small regional conferences and one large conference each year. AEJMC has 18 divisions, 10 interest groups, and two commissions (or areas of broad concern that cut across divisional lines): Commission on the Status of Minorities and Commission on the Status of Women. Most divisions and interest groups have their own academic journal (i.e., Journal of Advertising Education , Electronic News , International Communication Research Journal , Mass Communication & Society , etc.,) and AEJMC publishes three scholarly journals: Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly , Journal & Mass Communication Educator , and Journalism & Communication Monographs . More information about AEJMC can be found at www.aejmc.org.

The National Communication Association (NCA) is another large organization, and its annual convention attracts roughly 5,000 attendees. NCA has 48 divisions and six caucuses (Asian/Pacific American; Black; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Concerns; Disability; La Raza; and Women’s Caucus). In addition to journalism and mass communication, NCA features research divisions in activism and social justice, argumentation and forensics, ethnography, family communication, group communication, interpersonal communication, nonverbal communication, organizational communication, peace and conflict communication, public address, spiritual communication, and training and development. NCA publishes 11 academic journals: Communication and Critical/Cultural Studies , Communication Education , Communication Monographs , Communication Teacher , Critical Studies in Media Communication , First Amendment Studies , Journal of Applied Communication Research ,Journal of International and Intercultural Communication ,Quarterly Journal of Speech, The Review of Communication ,and Text and Performance Quarterly . More information about NCA can be found at www.natcom.org.

The largest international organization in our field is the International Communication Association (ICA). ICA boasts more than 4,500 members from 80 countries and is officially associated with the United Nations as a non-governmental NGO. They host an annual conference, switching between a US destination and an international destination each year. ICA has 23 divisions and nine interest groups, including divisions in Children, Adolescents and Media; Environmental Communication; Feminist Scholarship; Game Studies; Global Communication and Social Change; Philosophy, Theory and Critique; and Popular Communication in addition to divisions devoted to journalism, PR, and mass communication. ICA publishes six major peer reviewed journals: Journal of Communication, Communication Theory; Human Communication Research; Communication, Culture & Critique; Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication; and The Annals of the International Communication Association (formerly Communication Yearbook). There are also two affiliate journals: Communication & Society (a leading Chinese-language journal in journalism and communication) and Studies in Communication & Media (an open-access journal published by the German Communication Association). More information about ICA can be found at www.icahdq.org.

In addition to national and international professional organizations, there are several regional organizations that hold conferences. In our geographical area, we have the Georgia Communication Association (affiliated with NCA; www.gacomm.org), the Southern States Communication Association which publishes the Southern Communication Journal (also affiliated with NCA; www.ssca.net), and the Eastern Communication Association (ECA) which hosts conferences along the east coast of the US, and publishes Communication Research Reports, Qualitative Research Reports in Communication, and Communication Quarterly (www.ecasite.org). There are also regional meetings of the larger organizations, such as the AEJMC Southeast Colloquium, which is held at a different university in the Southeast each March.

There are also professional organizations associated with specific fields within the communication discipline. The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA; http://prsa.org ) is the largest communication-based professional organization in the US, boasting more than 30,000 members, and has a mission to “make communications professionals smarter, better prepared and more connected through all stages of their career.” They also support the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA; http://prssa.prsa.org ) with university chapters across the US. Kennesaw State’s School of Communication & Media has a PRSSA chapter, so if you’re a PR-Interest student you should check it out: http://www.ksuprssa.org .

Journalists have a professional organization as well: The Society for Professional Journalists (SPJ; www.spj.org). SPJ is the most broad-based journalism organization in the US, dedicated to “encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior.” SPJ was founded in 1909 and currently has roughly 7,500 members. The state of Georgia has an SPJ chapter ( https://spjgeorgia.com/ ) and Kennesaw State has a very active student chapter. You can check them out via their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/KennesawStateSpj.Interested in journalism and mass communication history? The American Journalism Historians Association (AJHA; https:// ajha.wildapricot.org/) holds a national conference and a Southeast symposium every year and publishes the academic journal American Journalism.

Are you a media production enthusiast? The Broadcast Education Association (BEA; www.beaweb.org) is a great resource. BEA is an international academic media professional organization focused on excellence in media production and career advancement for educators, students, and professionals in the industry. The organization holds a massive annual convention in Las Vegas in April, with over 250 sessions on teaching media courses, collaborative networking events, hands-on technology workshops, and research and creative scholarship, in addition to the Festival of Media Arts. The BEA convention is co-located with the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show, where attendees can learn about (and try!) all of the new media production technology. BEA also publishes the Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, Journal of Radio & Audio Media, Journal of Media Education, and the Electronic Media Research book series.

For scholars interested in film and media studies, The Society for Cinema & Media Studies (SCMS; https://www.cmstudies.org/ ) is dedicated to the scholarly study of film, television, video, and new media. They hold an annual conference where students and teachers of film and media studies present research and attend networking events. SCMS also publishes the peer-reviewed academic publication Cinema Journal, focusing on digital media, sound studies, visual culture, video game studies, fan studies, and avant-garde/experimental film and media practices.

Or perhaps you’re interested in health communication? The American Public Health Association has a Health Communication working group ( https://www.apha.org/apha-communities/ member-sections/public-health-education-and-health-promotion/who-we-are/hcwg) and the National Public Health Information Coalition (NPHIC) partners with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to host a national conference on health communication, media, and marketing ( https://www.cdc.gov/nchcmm/index.html ).

Are you an organizational and professional communication scholar? Try the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM; www.shrm.org). They host an annual conference with nearly 200 sessions in six categories: business & HR strategy, HR compliance, global HR, professional development, talent management, and total rewards. They also host conferences on diversity & inclusion, employment law & legislation, leadership development, and recruitment & talent management. There is a local Atlanta chapter here: https://www.shrmatlanta.org/ default.aspx. Another great resource is the Association for Talent Development (formerly “training & development) or ATD (www.td.org). They host conferences in the US and abroad as well as training workshops called “LearnNow” on topics such as game design for instruction, employee engagement, and getting started with augmented reality and virtual reality.

Dewey, J. (1927). The public and its problems. New York: Holt.

Lippmann, W. (1922). Public opinion . New York: Harcourt, Brace and Company.

"In much of society, research means to investigate something you do not know or understand. ” -Neil Armstrong

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For over three decades researchers and practitioners have depended on Communication Research for the most up-to-date, comprehensive and important research on communication and its related fields.

Important, In-Depth Research and Scholarship Communication processes are a fundamental part of virtually every aspect of human social life. Communication Research publishes articles that explore the processes, antecedents, and consequences of communication in a broad range of societal systems. Although most of the published articles are empirical, we also consider overview/review articles. These include the following:

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178 Communication Research Topics For Your Paper

Imagine what the world would be without communication! How would we get along? I guess there would be no sense in existing after all. That is just a tiny snippet of how important communication is in everyday life. Exchanging information is a key component of coexistence as it creates order and a sense of satisfaction in the end.

However, communication as a discipline cuts across all other niches in the academic world. Students from an Engineering course would also take up communication as a unit of study. Students delve into the transmission, representation, reception, and decoding of information communicated to a greater extent.

Situations When You May Need To Write A Communication Paper

Various scenarios call for a communication paper either as an assignment or a research project in college. The communication papers needed for every situation vary in format and outline. Here are some of the cases when communication papers are necessary:

When writing a resume or cover letter In presentations and reports Internal or external communication in a company Writing a thesis statement

When writing communication papers in these different scenarios, students can develop the following aspects:

Understand the various communication phenomena Ability to direct communication messages towards accomplishing individual and organizational goals Understand various types of communication such as rhetoric, interpersonal or organizational

Such an assignment is peculiar because it deals with students’ communication processes. Therefore, the student can easily relate a communication assignment to the real-world environment.

You will have to conduct extensive digging before writing your paper like any other research project. In writing a communication research paper, you will benefit from the importance of communication in general, such as building better relationships and finding the right solutions to various problems.

It takes a lot of time to create a high-quality writing, so you have all the right to ask dissertation writers for hire to help.

Guidelines On Structure And Step By Step Tips On Writing

To have an award-winning communication paper, you need to understand that structure is always at the heart of it all. A great communication paper follows the structure below:

Solid intro : Begin by presenting a captivating introduction by highlighting the facts, questions, or problems that you will explore in the body. The reader should find more than a million reasons to proceed with your essay by reading the first two lines. A strong thesis statement is also necessary for the introduction. An insightful literature review : It shows the theoretical basis of your research project, thus giving it validity. An in-depth literature review will give room for exploration and further research. Main body : This is where we expect to find all your findings, methodological steps, concepts, analyses, and the outcome. Discussion and conclusion : Depending on your professor’s instructions, you can divide this into two parts or put it as one. In either case, this section will consist of the strengths and weaknesses of your research and any future development or improvements. You could also compare the results found in your research with what other authors have discovered.

Provided you have all your facts at hand, a communication research paper will be the easiest you will ever handle in college. Nonetheless, you can order a custom paper from various online writing experts.

If you want to make an impression with your communication research paper, here are some tips to consider:

Select a thought-provoking and captivating research topic Have a working outline with all the arguments and examples/evidence in place Ensure that you exhaust reading all the possible research materials on your topic Such papers are always in the first person except in unique cases

You can review some of the samples on our essay writer to familiarize yourself with the structure and outline of a communication research paper.

Let’s now explore 178 of the hottest communication research topics to ace your project:

World-Class Communication Research Topics For College Students

Understanding the historical research methods in communication
Discuss the relationship between technology, media, and culture
Evaluate the various revolutions in human communication
Discuss the developments made in the invention of human speech and language
The role of image-making, cinema, and media entertainment in communication
How to overcome communication barriers among students
Steps in encouraging participation in meetings
How employees contribute to the information flow in organizations
How to evaluate a report based on its findings
Sources of error during nonverbal communication
How the media can match the channels of communication to their audience
Ensuring audience attention during a presentation
The impact of graphics in communication strategies
How to interpret non-verbal signals
Developing communication methods that match a given purpose

Possible Topics For Communication Research

How to develop realistic communication strategies
Discuss the economics of finance in communication processes
How exposure to radio and TV impacts communication
How to manage controversial issues in communication
Why speaking with confidence is still difficult for many people
The effectiveness of communicating with words and body language
Why defining your purpose is key in any communication process
Why explanatory communication is more difficult than informative communication
The place of communication in long-distance relationships
Communication strategies that influence people
How to use communication effectively for conflict resolution
Developing your self-esteem for effective communication
Effects of redundancy in communication processes
The place of responsibility in developing communication messages
How to acquire effective communication skills in college

Latest Communication Topic For Research

The role of persuasive dialogue in negotiations
Why everyone must learn proper expression strategies
Effects of emoji and other characters in enhancing textual conversations
The role of propaganda in shaping communication tones
Evaluate the unique political language used in America versus Africa
The continuing impact of the internet on interpersonal communication
How images are enhancing communication
Discuss the effects of gender victimization on communication
Evaluate the development of modern digital communication
How to effectively communicate during a war or crisis
How hacking is transforming communication of encrypted messages
Effects of stereotyping in developing communication messages
Is virtual reality ruining effective communication?
Evaluate language as a barrier in communicating messages
The role of empathy in communicating to victims of a disaster

Top-Notch Communication Research Paper Topics

The role of diplomacy in fostering better relations among countries
Why aided communication may not achieve the intended purpose
Effects of using a translator in the communication of critical messages
Evaluate the development of audio-visual devices for communication
The dangers of failing to notice barriers to communication
How stigma and prejudice impact effective communication
Discuss the impact of having a common language in a country
How social classes affect communication messages
Factors that hinder communication between fighting political sides
How to develop strong communication skills in a marketplace
Why opinions may prevent one from seeing the true picture
Discuss the role of fantasy and exaggeration in communication
Differences between oral and verbal messages in conveying information
The role of attitude and mood in enhancing effective message delivery
How the media sets the communication pattern of a given society

Highly Rated Mass Communication Research Topics

Discuss the essence of social media among PR practitioners
The role of mass media in rebranding a nation
Challenges to media freedom and their impact on proper communication
Discuss the effects of news commercialization and their credibility
How TV advertisements impact children and their development
Compare and contrast between animation and real-people adverts in mass media
How the internet affects professionalization in news media
How mass media messages contribute to the development of religion in Africa
Evaluate the radio listenership patterns between men and women
How does mass media contribute to an emerging democracy
Discuss how the media enlightens the public on issues of concern
The role of mass media in communicating development messages
Why mass media is critical before, during, and after elections
Assess the influence of community radio in remote areas
How mass media contributes to national integration

Good Communication Research Topics

What determines consumer preference patterns in the 21 st century?
Effective communication strategies for creating awareness against drug abuse
Prospects and challenges of local dialects in communication
Evaluate the influence of television on public opinion
Discuss the growing cyberactivism in the digital age
How social media is contributing to misleading information
Challenges facing teachers when communicating to pre-school students
Discuss the impact of information overload on the credibility of information
Evaluate communication patterns among the youth in the US
Assess the effects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on communication patterns
How public perception influences communication strategies
Explain how mothers learn to communicate with and understand their babies at such a tender age
The role of music in shaping communication models
How to overcome the challenge of top-down communication in companies
Management of information on online media for effective use

Business Communication Research Paper Topics

Discuss the increasing role of influencers on brand marketing
Why company blogs are essential in attracting new clients
Evaluate the differences between face to face and virtual business meetings
The growing popularity of social media in business marketing
Why every company should have a partner relations department
Dealing with complaints in a relaxed and useful manner
Why online project management is the future of business
Discuss why it is necessary to have company retreats
Explore the role of digital document sharing in speeding up business communication
Effects of relying on online communication at the expense of physical meetings
The role of effective business management in the performance of an organization
How staff motivation improve the overall working environment
Discuss the place of corporate social responsibility in a company
Effective ways of handling crisis in a large company
Explain why trust is important in any business partnerships

Intercultural Communication Research Topics

Discuss how Muslims interact with Christians at a social level
Evaluate the reception of instructions from a man to a woman
How Americans interact with Africans at the basic level
Discuss how an American Democrat would associate with a Chinese politician
Discuss the impact of marginalization in developing communication messages
How migration and immigration affect communication patterns
Effects of social stereotyping in communication
How do Western communication models differ from those of Africa?
Impact of discriminatory communication messages
How to organize an effective intergroup come-together
How the media represents various groups in its communication
Effects of the growing intercultural norms
The role of language attitudes in inhibiting effective communication
Evaluate how ethnographic perspectives affect communication messages
Why it is difficult to solve intercultural conflicts

Additional Interpersonal Communication Topics For Research Paper

The role of interpersonal communication in team member satisfaction
How collaboration and teamwork enhances business success
Discuss how interpersonal communication enhances problem-solving skills
The role of trust in interpersonal communication
Effects of confusion, negativity, and conflicts on interpersonal communication
How to deal with workplace miscommunication effectively
The role of personalizing information
How to improve internal communication channels in a company
Discuss the role of interests in communication patterns
Challenges when implementing modern communication solutions
Evaluate how jargon and inattention make internal communication difficult
The role of feedback in interpreting messages correctly
Discuss the influence of environmental factors in communication
Why miscommunication may result in a disconnect among a group of people
Discuss the role of skills and knowledge in effective communication among leaders

Interesting Communication Research Topics

How can effective interpersonal communication be a catalyst for action
Why a focused and intentional approach is necessary for effective communication
Discuss why online dating is not successful in most cases
Evaluate the role of non-verbal communication and customer satisfaction
Why is it important to have a list of communication networks?
Effects of lack of personal contact when it comes to communication
Discuss the various forms of human interactions and their influence on communication
The role of clear communication during an organizational change process
Why online communication is not as effective as physical meetings
Evaluate the roles and issues involved in a nurse-patient communication
The role of TV shows in determining how people relate to each other in the society
Effects of the digital divide in communication paradigms
The relationship between quality leadership and effective communication
Why is email still not yet an effective communication medium?
Effects of integrating marketing communication

General Communication Studies Research Topics

Discuss the differences in body language between male and female
The role of communication in familiarizing with someone
How online gaming communication affects one’s interpersonal communication
Why a leader without proper communication skills may not succeed
The role of communication in achieving an organization’s vision
How mobile phone conversations are turning around interpersonal communication
Discuss the role of different personality types in communication
Is there a difference between language and communication?
Discuss how communication in the military is different from that in a normal setting
Compare and contrast between written and spoken forms of communication
Why family communication is critical for a peaceful coexistence
Shortcomings to understanding foreign languages
Discuss the effectiveness of web-based communication

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Guide to Communication Research Methodologies: Quantitative, Qualitative and Rhetorical Research

Overview of Communication

Communication research methods, quantitative research, qualitative research, rhetorical research, mixed methodology.

Students interested in earning a graduate degree in communication should have at least some interest in understanding communication theories and/or conducting communication research. As students advance from undergraduate to graduate programs, an interesting change takes place — the student is no longer just a repository for knowledge. Rather, the student is expected to learn while also creating knowledge. This new knowledge is largely generated through the development and completion of research in communication studies. Before exploring the different methodologies used to conduct communication research, it is important to have a foundational understanding of the field of communication.

Defining communication is much harder than it sounds. Indeed, scholars have argued about the topic for years, typically differing on the following topics:

Breadth : How many behaviors and actions should or should not be considered communication.
Intentionality : Whether the definition includes an intention to communicate.
Success : Whether someone was able to effectively communicate a message, or merely attempted to without it being received or understood.

However, most definitions discuss five main components, which include: sender, receiver, context/environment, medium, and message. Broadly speaking, communication research examines these components, asking questions about each of them and seeking to answer those questions.

As students seek to answer their own questions, they follow an approach similar to most other researchers. This approach proceeds in five steps: conceptualize, plan and design, implement a methodology, analyze and interpret, reconceptualize.

Conceptualize : In the conceptualization process, students develop their area of interest and determine if their specific questions and hypotheses are worth investigating. If the research has already been completed, or there is no practical reason to research the topic, students may need to find a different research topic.
Plan and Design : During planning and design students will select their methods of evaluation and decide how they plan to define their variables in a measurable way.
Implement a Methodology : When implementing a methodology, students collect the data and information they require. They may, for example, have decided to conduct a survey study. This is the step when they would use their survey to collect data. If students chose to conduct a rhetorical criticism, this is when they would analyze their text.
Analyze and Interpret : As students analyze and interpret their data or evidence, they transform the raw findings into meaningful insights. If they chose to conduct interviews, this would be the point in the process where they would evaluate the results of the interviews to find meaning as it relates to the communication phenomena of interest.
Reconceptualize : During reconceptualization, students ask how their findings speak to a larger body of research — studies related to theirs that have already been completed and research they should execute in the future to continue answering new questions.

This final step is crucial, and speaks to an important tenet of communication research: All research contributes to a better overall understanding of communication and moves the field forward by enabling the development of new theories.

In the field of communication, there are three main research methodologies: quantitative, qualitative, and rhetorical. As communication students progress in their careers, they will likely find themselves using one of these far more often than the others.

Quantitative research seeks to establish knowledge through the use of numbers and measurement. Within the overarching area of quantitative research, there are a variety of different methodologies. The most commonly used methodologies are experiments, surveys, content analysis, and meta-analysis. To better understand these research methods, you can explore the following examples:

Experiments : Experiments are an empirical form of research that enable the researcher to study communication in a controlled environment. For example, a researcher might know that there are typical responses people use when they are interrupted during a conversation. However, it might be unknown as to how frequency of interruption provokes those different responses (e.g., do communicators use different responses when interrupted once every 10 minutes versus once per minute?). An experiment would allow a researcher to create these two environments to test a hypothesis or answer a specific research question. As you can imagine, it would be very time consuming — and probably impossible — to view this and measure it in the real world. For that reason, an experiment would be perfect for this research inquiry.

Surveys : Surveys are often used to collect information from large groups of people using scales that have been tested for validity and reliability. A researcher might be curious about how a supervisor sharing personal information with his or her subordinate affects way the subordinate perceives his or her supervisor. The researcher could create a survey where respondents answer questions about a) the information their supervisors self-disclose and b) their perceptions of their supervisors. The data collected about these two variables could offer interesting insights about this communication. As you would guess, an experiment would not work in this case because the researcher needs to assess a real relationship and they need insight into the mind of the respondent.

Content Analysis : Content analysis is used to count the number of occurrences of a phenomenon within a source of media (e.g., books, magazines, commercials, movies, etc.). For example, a researcher might be interested in finding out if people of certain races are underrepresented on television. They might explore this area of research by counting the number of times people of different races appear in prime time television and comparing that to the actual proportions in society.

Meta-Analysis : In this technique, a researcher takes a collection of quantitative studies and analyzes the data as a whole to get a better understanding of a communication phenomenon. For example, a researcher might be curious about how video games affect aggression. This researcher might find that many studies have been done on the topic, sometimes with conflicting results. In their meta-analysis, they could analyze the existing statistics as a whole to get a better understanding of the relationship between the two variables.

Qualitative research is interested in exploring subjects’ perceptions and understandings as they relate to communication. Imagine two researchers who want to understand student perceptions of the basic communication course at a university. The first researcher, a quantitative researcher, might measure absences to understand student perception. The second researcher, a qualitative researcher, might interview students to find out what they like and dislike about a course. The former is based on hard numbers, while the latter is based on human experience and perception.

Qualitative researchers employ a variety of different methodologies. Some of the most popular are interviews, focus groups, and participant observation. To better understand these research methods, you can explore the following examples:

Interviews : This typically consists of a researcher having a discussion with a participant based on questions developed by the researcher. For example, a researcher might be interested in how parents exert power over the lives of their children while the children are away at college. The researcher could spend time having conversations with college students about this topic, transcribe the conversations and then seek to find themes across the different discussions.

Focus Groups : A researcher using this method gathers a group of people with intimate knowledge of a communication phenomenon. For example, if a researcher wanted to understand the experience of couples who are childless by choice, he or she might choose to run a series of focus groups. This format is helpful because it allows participants to build on one another’s experiences, remembering information they may otherwise have forgotten. Focus groups also tend to produce useful information at a higher rate than interviews. That said, some issues are too sensitive for focus groups and lend themselves better to interviews.

Participant Observation : As the name indicates, this method involves the researcher watching participants in their natural environment. In some cases, the participants may not know they are being studied, as the researcher fully immerses his or herself as a member of the environment. To illustrate participant observation, imagine a researcher curious about how humor is used in healthcare. This researcher might immerse his or herself in a long-term care facility to observe how humor is used by healthcare workers interacting with patients.

Rhetorical research (or rhetorical criticism) is a form of textual analysis wherein the researcher systematically analyzes, interprets, and critiques the persuasive power of messages within a text. This takes on many forms, but all of them involve similar steps: selecting a text, choosing a rhetorical method, analyzing the text, and writing the criticism.

To illustrate, a researcher could be interested in how mass media portrays “good degrees” to prospective college students. To understand this communication, a rhetorical researcher could take 30 articles on the topic from the last year and write a rhetorical essay about the criteria used and the core message argued by the media.

Likewise, a researcher could be interested in how women in management roles are portrayed in television. They could select a group of popular shows and analyze that as the text. This might result in a rhetorical essay about the behaviors displayed by these women and what the text says about women in management roles.

As a final example, one might be interested in how persuasion is used by the president during the White House Correspondent’s Dinner. A researcher could select several recent presidents and write a rhetorical essay about their speeches and how they employed persuasion during their delivery.

Taking a mixed methods approach results in a research study that uses two or more techniques discussed above. Often, researchers will pair two methods together in the same study examining the same phenomenon. Other times, researchers will use qualitative methods to develop quantitative research, such as a researcher who uses a focus group to discuss the validity of a survey before it is finalized.

The benefit of mixed methods is that it offers a richer picture of a communication phenomenon by gathering data and information in multiple ways. If we explore some of the earlier examples, we can see how mixed methods might result in a better understanding of the communication being studied.

Example 1 : In surveys, we discussed a researcher interested in understanding how a supervisor sharing personal information with his or her subordinate affects the way the subordinate perceives his or her supervisor. While a survey could give us some insight into this communication, we could also add interviews with subordinates. Exploring their experiences intimately could give us a better understanding of how they navigate self-disclosure in a relationship based on power differences.

Example 2 : In content analysis, we discussed measuring representation of different races during prime time television. While we can count the appearances of members of different races and compare that to the composition of the general population, that doesn’t tell us anything about their portrayal. Adding rhetorical criticism, we could talk about how underrepresented groups are portrayed in either a positive or negative light, supporting or defying commonly held stereotypes.

Example 3 : In interviews, we saw a researcher who explored how power could be exerted by parents over their college-age children who are away at school. After determining the tactics used by parents, this interview study could have a phase two. In this phase, the researcher could develop scales to measure each tactic and then use those scales to understand how the tactics affect other communication constructs. One could argue, for example, that student anxiety would increase as a parent exerts greater power over that student. A researcher could conduct a hierarchical regression to see how each power tactic effects the levels of stress experienced by a student.

As you can see, each methodology has its own merits, and they often work well together. As students advance in their study of communication, it is worthwhile to learn various research methods. This allows them to study their interests in greater depth and breadth. Ultimately, they will be able to assemble stronger research studies and answer their questions about communication more effectively.

Note : For more information about research in the field of communication, check out our Guide to Communication Research and Scholarship .

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250+ Communication Research Topics & Ideas for Students to Consider

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Picture this: you're sitting at your desk, racking your brain for a killer communication research paper topic. You've scrolled through countless websites, but nothing is resonating. Sounds frustrating, right?

Well, good news – your search ends here. Our blog has been carefully designed to combat this exact problem by providing a broad array of unique communication research topics. Aimed at students like you, it offers topics that are not only relevant, but also engaging and thought-provoking.

We invite you to dive into these communication research paper topics, sure to set your communication study on the right track. They're ready to be picked, expanded, or simply serve as a spark to ignite your creativity. Forget the nightmare of topic selection! With our blog, that's a problem of the past. Dive in this collection from our paper writers online and let the inspiration flow!

What Are Communication Research Topics?

Communication studies is an academic field that integrates aspects of sociology, psychology, media and politics to examine human communication. It's an incredibly dynamic field that explores how information is transmitted and understood among people, organizations, cultures, or nations.

In this regard, communication research topics cover a wildly diverse range of areas. Some subjects might revolve around understanding social media algorithms, while others focus on the power of political speeches. Basically, if your research explores sending, receiving, and understanding of messages – it fits right into communication studies.

Characteristics of Good Communication Research Paper Topics

Finding the right communication topics for a research paper is like looking for the perfect ingredient. It's not just about grabbing the first thing you see. Instead, you need to select a topic that satisfies your professor’s requirements and adds value to the academic conversation.

So, what makes a communication research paper topic truly stand out? The answer is simple. You should be governed by a few key attributes that elevate a topic from good to great. Below are some of these features:

Present-time significance Choose a topic that resonates with contemporary issues. These subjects may vary from understanding the impact of social media on public discourse to exploring the ethics in digital advertising.
Novelty Communication field is vast, but repetitive themes can lose their appeal. Strive for novelty. A fresh viewpoint or a new exploration in a familiar domain can make your paper truly distinctive.
Practicality Grand ideas are wonderful, but an effective topic is the one that can be comfortably researched given your resources and timeframe. Consider your access to data, available literature, and your expertise while navigating through research topics for communication.
Personal engagement A study should keep you involved. Your own enthusiasm can make the research process more rewarding.
Precision A crucial attribute is the scope. An overly broad topic can lead to a surface-level discussion, while a hyper-narrow theme can limit the scope of your research. Make sure your communication research topic keeps that balance.

How to Choose a Communication Research Topic?

Selecting a good research topic in communication can be a time-consuming process since there are many areas to pick from. But with these steps, making a choice can be way easier.

Discover Stay updated with the latest trends, theories, and debates in communication studies. This can help you identify emerging or important areas that could form the basis of your title.
Ideate Generate a list of possible topics for communication research based on your readings, interests, and specific requirements. Ensure these themes are intriguing and meet instructions.
Refine Critically assess your ideas considering the availability of resources for research. Narrow down your list to ideas that can be researched with the resources you have.
Finalize Select a theme that you are genuinely interested in. Confirm your choice after discussing it with your mentors, peers or online research paper writing service .

Communication Research Topics List

Before you begin searching, remember to align your topic with your instructor's guidelines and course objectives. Our expert term paper writers have curated a list of engaging communication research paper topics. These ideas, both intriguing and diverse, can provide a robust starting point for your exploration.

Impact of emojis on digital conversation.
Non-verbal cues in virtual meetings.
Evolution of political discourse on social media.
Crisis communication in the age of Twitter.
Role of memes in shaping public opinion.
Ethics of persuasion in advertising.
Are podcasts a new form of storytelling?
Influence of cultural nuances on business communication.
Fake news and media literacy.
Language barriers in international diplomacy.
Social media influencers as modern change-makers.
Impact of technology on interpersonal communication.
Role of humor in effective communication.
How does workplace diversity affect communication styles?
Accessibility in digital communication.

Interesting Communication Research Topics

Great communications research topics should also tackle real-world issues and invite further exploration. We've tailored our suggestions to align with these criteria, aiming to pique your curiosity. Here are fascinating topics that you might find interesting:

Role of communication in climate change awareness.
Deconstructing political rhetoric in election campaigns.
Can emojis replace words in digital conversations?
Impact of influencers on consumer behavior.
Fake news and public trust in media.
Miscommunication: Root causes and effects.
Bridging cultural gaps in international negotiations.
Understanding gender dynamics in conversation.
Ethical boundaries in persuasive advertising.
Memes as a form of political commentary.
Podcasts: Reviving oral traditions in a digital age?
Influence of social media on body image.
Digital detox: A solution for information overload?
Negotiating language barriers in global diplomacy.
What impact does social media have on public opinion?

Good Communication Research Topics

If you are still in search of something more specific, the following communication research topics ideas can help. They cover a range of disciplines and avenues for exploration, from healthcare research topics to business topics and ideas.

Crisis communication in natural disasters.
Role of body language in job interviews.
Digital activism: Effective tool or just noise?
How does social media shape our self-image?
Impact of AI on interpersonal communication.
Ethics and transparency in public relations.
Humor as a communication tool in education.
Can language shape our perception of reality?
Exploring intercultural communication in multinational companies.
Analyzing propaganda techniques in modern media.
Role of storytelling in organizational leadership.
Communication strategies in health campaigns.
Power dynamics in family conversations.
Navigating digital communication etiquette: Do’s and don'ts.
Is anonymity empowering or threatening in online communication?

Simple Communication Research Paper Topics

Browsing through tons of research topics in communication can quickly become overwhelming if not managed properly. To simplify the process, these easy yet comprehensive ideas may be of help.

Role of silence in effective communication.
Influence of celebrity endorsements on brand image.
Impact of texting on language skills.
Social media as a tool for social change.
Power of non-verbal communication in public speaking.
Exploring communication styles across cultures.
Understanding effective communication in sports teams.
Cyberbullying: A new face of aggression?
Role of communication in customer service excellence.
Music as a universal language: Myth or reality?
Exploring personal space in different cultures.
Are billboards still effective advertising tools?
Impact of language proficiency on academic performance.
Bridging generational gaps through effective communication.
Role of communication in conflict resolution.

Latest Communication Research Topics

Keeping pace with the latest trends is crucial, as it allows you to tap into contemporary debates. It's about understanding the pulse of the present, exploring the new, and challenging the status quo. To help you get involved in these current discussions, here are some trending communication topics for research:

Role of TikTok in shaping youth culture.
Impact of remote work on team communication.
Is cancel culture affecting freedom of speech?
Rise of mental health conversations on social media.
Understanding AI's role in customer service communication.
Influencer marketing: Revolutionizing traditional advertising?
Dealing with misinformation in the era of instant news.
Impact of virtual reality on interpersonal communication.
Communication strategies in pandemic crisis management.
Role of livestreaming in shaping consumer behavior.
Can chatbots replace human customer service?
NFTs and their impact on digital art communication.
E-sports communication: New rules of the game.
Voice technology: Future of human-machine communication?
Communication patterns in online learning environments.

Communication Research Topic Ideas for Students

Requirements to research differ depending on the academic level. If you are searching for research topics on communication divided into separate groups based on their academic complexity, don’t go any further. Below we selected the best communication research ideas for both college and university students.

Communication Research Paper Topics for College Students

College-level studies require a more sophisticated approach than a high-school one. You should explore beyond the surface and engage critically with various facets of communication. To meet these academic expectations, we offer you a selection of communication research topics for college students.

Biases in news media coverage.
Understanding communication breakdown in diplomatic relations.
Role of data visualization in business communication.
The psychology of persuasion in advertising.
Impact of subliminal messaging in advertising.
Cross-cultural communication in global business.
Role of LinkedIn in professional networking.
Impact of language nuances on legal communication.
Political correctness in public discourse: Necessity or limitation?
Social media algorithms and user behavior.
Analyzing crisis communication in the airline industry.
Impact of cyber communication on teenage self-esteem.
Exploring echo chambers in digital media.
Communication strategies for environmental advocacy.
Role of whistleblowers in corporate communication.

Communication Research Paper Topics for University Students

University-level research is often more intensive and complex. To help you cope with this, we've prepared a selection of communication research topics for university students. These ideas should give you plenty of material to investigate.

Impact of bilingualism on interpersonal communication.
Role of visual aids in classroom communication.
AI's influence on journalism: A revolution?
Social networking sites: Anxieties and self-presentation.
How does music communicate cultural identities?
Body language in job interviews: What does it communicate?
Gated communities and their communication culture.
Graffiti: A form of social communication?
Comics: Communicating societal issues through art.
Silent films: Mastering communication without words.
Decoding communication in dance forms across cultures.
Role of color in marketing communication.
Dealing with information overload in the digital age.
Visual communication in the age of Instagram and Snapchat.
The impact of dark social on marketing.

Research Topics in Communication by Subject

Navigating through different communication research paper topics can be daunting, which is why we've categorized them by subject for your convenience. Whether you're focused on interpersonal communication, media studies, or communication technology, there's something here for everyone. Below, you'll find an array of communication paper topics, thoughtfully organized to cater to your specific academic needs.

Interpersonal Communication Research Topics

Interpersonal communication is the process by which people exchange information, feelings, and meaning through verbal and non-verbal messages. It's not just about what is said or expressed, but also how it's perceived and understood. Below are some interpersonal communication research paper topics you might find interesting:

Impact of language barriers on interpersonal relationships.
Perception of sarcasm in online communication.
Power dynamics in family communication.
Self-disclosure in romantic relationships: Benefit or bane?
Face-to-face vs. digital communication.
Exploring communication styles in leadership roles.
Interpersonal communication in multi-generational workplaces.
Art of persuasion in interpersonal communication.
Examining the role of empathy in effective communication.
Listening skills: Their impact on interpersonal relationships.
The role of humor in easing interpersonal tensions.
Social etiquette: Unspoken rules of interpersonal communication.
Impact of cultural norms on interpersonal communication.
Role of interpersonal communication in fostering team spirit.
The psychology of small talk.

Intercultural Communication Research Topics

Intercultural communication investigates how people from different societies interact and communicate with each other. It encompasses various topics, including language acquisition, cultural identity, political discourse, cross-cultural differences in business communication, and more. Here are some intercultural communication topics for research papers to get you started:

Body language: Deciphering variations across cultures.
Cultural adaptations in international business communication.
Etiquette in digital correspondence between representatives of different cultures.
Role of cultural intelligence in effective intercultural communication.
Impact of cultural stereotyping on communication.
Religious sensitivities in intercultural dialogue.
Challenges in international diplomacy.
Interpreting emotions across cultures.
Exploring cultural nuances in humor.
Role of intercultural communication in global marketing.
Cross-cultural adaptation of immigrants: Communication barriers and breakthroughs.
Cultural perceptions of privacy in communication.
Role of translation in intercultural understanding.
Impact of globalization on intercultural communication.
How cultural backgrounds affect negotiation tactics.

Communication Research Paper Topics on Public Relations

Public relations involve strategic communication and relationships between organizations, their target audiences, customers, suppliers, employees, media stakeholders, and other relevant publics. Below are some topics related to communication and public relations:

Ethics in PR: Navigating gray areas.
Social media's influence on modern PR strategies.
Celebrity endorsements: A PR perspective.
Public relations and communication in corporate social responsibility.
PR for start-ups: Building a brand from scratch.
The influence of PR on consumer decision-making.
PR in sports: Handling controversies and scandals.
Environmental PR: Advocating for sustainability.
Impact of fake news on PR practices.
Diversity and inclusion in PR campaigns.
PR and event management: Making a splash.
Dealing with PR failures: Lessons from high-profile cases.
PR in the hospitality industry: Ensuring customer satisfaction.
How does PR shape the public image of celebrities?
Communication strategies for handling negative PR.

Mass Communication Research Topics

Mass communication is a mechanism for disseminating information and ideas to large audiences. It can be used for educational, marketing, or advertising purposes. Here are some of the best mass communications research topics on offer:

Influence of political bias in news reporting.
Analyzing audience behavior in the digital age.
Impact of sensationalism on news quality.
How mass communication shapes societal norms.
Mass communication in health promotion campaigns.
Effects of product placement in television shows.
Understanding censorship in mass media.
Media literacy: The need for critical consumption.
Role of mass communication in electoral politics.
Effects of celebrity culture on mass audiences.
Representation of minority groups in mainstream media.
Pop culture influence on youth.
Role of mass communication in environmental awareness.
Impact of digital platforms on print journalism.
Mass communication and its effect on consumer behavior.

Communication Research Topics on Social Media

Social media has revolutionized the way people communicate, with far-reaching implications for marketing and public relations. Below are some research topics in communication for your next social media essay or project:

Balancing privacy and connectivity on social platforms.
What makes content shareable?
Brands navigating cancel culture on social platforms.
Social media and mental health: Exploring connections.
LinkedIn etiquette: Navigating professional communication online.
Snapchat's influence on short-term content consumption.
Crisis management on social media: Case studies.
The evolution of Facebook's news feed algorithm.
How does social media affect political discourse?
Twitch and the rise of livestreaming cultures.
Ethical considerations in data mining on social platforms.
Digital activism: Social media's role in social movements.
Analyzing the growth and influence of TikTok.
Determining the impact of fake news on voting preferences.
Pros and cons of using AI for content moderation.

>> View more: Social Media Research Paper Topics

Communication Research Topics on Journalism

Journalism is an integral part of our society as it informs and shapes a public opinion. As this field evolves, especially with digital technology, new research angles constantly arise. We did our best to collect the best journalism communication related topics below:

Challenges of investigative journalism in the digital age.
Citizen journalism versus traditional journalism.
The role of artificial intelligence in news generation.
Journalism ethics in the era of "clickbait."
Combating fake news: Strategies for news outlets.
The impact of podcasts on journalism.
Role of photojournalism in conflict reporting.
Impact of social media on newsroom practices.
24/7 news cycle: A boon or a bane?
Exploring objectivity in political journalism.
The decline of print media: What's next?
Environmental journalism and its role in climate change awareness.
Multimedia communication: Integration of text, audio, and video.
Journalism's role in fostering social change.
The rise and impact of opinion journalism.

Communication Research Ideas on Negotiations

Negotiations are at the heart of business communication and diplomacy, making them a highly relevant topic of research. Explore these research topics about communication and negotiations:

Role of cultural understanding in international negotiations.
How do emotions affect negotiation outcomes?
Strategies for dealing with deadlock.
The art of persuasive language in communication.
Power dynamics in business negotiations.
The effect of gender stereotypes on negotiation.
Online negotiations: New rules and dynamics.
The psychology of 'win-win' scenarios.
Pre-negotiation stage: Preparation and its importance.
Building trust in communication processes.
Negotiation styles across different industries.
The role of ethics in negotiations.
The impact of negotiation training on business outcomes.
Strategies to handle aggressive negotiators.
Do introverts or extroverts negotiate better?

Virtual Communication Topics for a Research Paper

Virtual communication refers to the process of exchanging information between two or more people within a simulated environment. This could be anything from social media platforms to online gaming forums, virtual reality, and computer-mediated conferencing. Here are some digital communication research paper topics to consider:

Exploring how virtual teams bridge geographic divides.
Investigating how emojis and emoticons are changing language norms.
Defining digital etiquette and rules for the new age.
Virtual communication and work-life balance.
What is the role of virtual reality in revolutionizing communication?
Is social media a friend or foe in professional communication?
The evolution of language in the age of texting.
How does 5G influence our communication habits?
Is e-learning an effective method or just a convenient option?
How to navigate misinformation in online conversations?
Telemedicine marks a new era for healthcare communication.
Are virtual meetings a productivity booster or a time waster?
Is blockchain a game changer for secure communication?
The use of virtual reality in public speaking training.
Digital communication and the paradox of loneliness.

Communication Research Topics on Advertising

Advertising is the process of attracting attention to products and services through various forms of communication — from TV commercials to creative content marketing campaigns. Take a look at these advertising communication research ideas to pick a fitting topic:

How does emotional appeal work in advertising campaigns?
How do colors influence purchasing decisions in advertising?
Can humor in advertising guarantee a positive response?
The role of nostalgia in marketing campaigns.
How do different cultures react to the same ad?
Analyzing the communication techniques in Nike's 'Just Do It' campaign.
Evaluating the 'Got Milk?' campaign: The role of concise messaging.
The influence of McDonald's 'I'm Lovin' It' campaign on consumer behavior.
The impact of Apple's 'Think Different' campaign on brand perception.
Analysis of 'Share a Coke' ad: Personalization as a communication tool.
The 'Because You're Worth It' campaign by L'Oreal: A study in self-affirmative messaging.
'Don't Be Evil': Understanding Google's corporate identity through its original slogan.
How are 'Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt' (FUD) used in smear campaigns?
How do 'Calls to Action' affect the success of digital campaigns?
The role of user-generated content in advertising.

>> More ideas: Marketing Research Topics

Communication Research Topics on Leadership

Leadership is all about effective communication. Leaders must be able to communicate their vision effectively in order for their followers to understand and buy into it. Below are some communication research topic ideas for your leadership essay or scholarly study.

Impact of transformational leadership communication on employee morale.
Persuasive techniques of successful women leaders.
Leadership and team productivity: The unspoken connection.
Comparison of narrative styles among autocratic and democratic leaders.
Communication pitfalls in leadership.
Effect of non-verbal communication in leadership efficacy.
Role of effective message conveying in conflict resolution among leaders.
Analysis of Steve Jobs' leadership communication style.
Assertive message conveyance and its effect on leadership success.
How does style of expression influence perception of leadership?
Importance of cultural intelligence in leadership communication.
Emotional intelligence and empathy in leadership.
Role of open dialogue in leadership and trust building.
Examining the importance of listening skills in effective leadership.
Communication strategies for leading remote teams.

Extra Communication Research Topic Ideas

As the field of communication is vast and encompasses multiple subjects, not all topics find their exact match in pre-established categories. For those unique, fascinating, and sometimes offbeat communication research paper topics, we have created an extra section. Here, you can explore additional ideas that although didn't neatly fit into a particular category, hold immense research potential.

Communication Research Questions

Are you about to write a research paper or a dissertation in communication but haven't settled on a topic yet? If so, then you can consider one of the following communication research questions:

In what ways has COVID-19 influenced remote communication techniques?
Can online video platforms replace face-to-face meetings fully?
How do different age groups perceive and interpret memes?
Is digital detox a viable solution for communication overload?
How does color psychology influence marketing communication?
What role does silence play in non-verbal dialogue?
How do political leaders use body language in public speaking?
How has podcasting influenced knowledge dissemination?
What are the communication challenges faced by astronauts during space missions?
Can communication training improve emotional intelligence?
How does culture impact our perception of visual communication?
How is AI changing the landscape of communication in healthcare?
Does text messaging and instant messaging deteriorate writing skills?
How does bilingualism influence communication styles?
What role does music play in cross-cultural communication?

Research Topics on Communication for Exam

If you have scrolled down this far, chances are you are about to take an exam on communication topics. To help you make the best of your exam preparation, we've compiled a list of communication research paper topics that you might face on your exam.

Evolving trends in workplace interactions.
The impact of social media on personal connections.
Ethical considerations in journalistic practices.
Influence of culture on conversation styles.
Symbolism in advertising messages.
Effect of virtual reality on social interactions.
The role of storytelling in organizational dialogue.
Gender differences in dialogue styles.
Importance of active listening in effective exchanges.
How leadership effectiveness is influenced by dialogue techniques.
Effects of mass media on societal behavior.
AI's impact on future interaction systems.
Technological advancements in telecommunication fields.
How does noise affect the quality of conversation?
Influence of personal branding on messaging.

Main Approaches to Studying Communication

Scholars have developed multiple frameworks to study this discipline. These techniques provide the backbone to many communication research studies and guide how we understand, analyze, and interpret messages. In the subsequent section, you can see 4 major approaches to studying communication, each offering a unique perspective.

Bottom Line on Research Topics About Communication

We hope that this assortment of communication research paper topics will aid you in finding the right idea. Keep in mind that the research questions are just a starting point. Don’t hesitate to build on them or explore related sub-topics based on the direction your project takes. And remember to always cite properly when using existing studies for your paper. From how to cite a book in APA to how to cite a journal in MLA or create a Chicago website citation , we’ve collected the latest guidelines and examples for any citation format.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or simply need some expert guidance, reach out to our team of academic professionals. They all have solid experience in the field and are eager to assist you. Just say " write my research paper ," and get your project done in no time.

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

Interpersonal Communication Research Paper Topics

Comforting Communication
Communication and Relationship Rules
Communication Apprehension
Communicator Style
Dating Relationships
Deception Detection Accuracy
Deceptive Message Production
Disclosure in Interpersonal Communication
Environment and Social Interaction
Expectancy Violation
Eye Behavior
Facial Expressions
Friendship and Peer Interaction
Gestures and Kinesics
Imagined Interactions
Impression Management
Ingratiation and Affinity Seeking
Initial Interaction
Interaction Adaptation Theory
Interpersonal Attraction
Interpersonal Communication Competence and Social Skills
Interpersonal Conflict
Long-Distance Relationships
Marital Communication
Marital Typologies

Mediated Social Interaction

Negotiation and Bargaining
Online Relationships
Paralanguage
Politeness Theory
Power, Dominance, and Social Interaction
Reciprocity and Compensation in Interaction
Relational Control
Relational Dialectics
Relational Maintenance
Relational Schemas
Relational Termination
Relational Uncertainty

Relationship Development

Schemas, Knowledge Structures, and Social Interaction
Self-Presentation
Sex and Gender Differences in Interpersonal Communication
Sibling Interaction
Social Aspects of Goals
Social Exchange
Social Interaction Structure
Social Support in Interpersonal Communication
Uncertainty Management
Uncertainty Reduction Theory
Verbal Aggressiveness

Uncertainty in Interpersonal Communication

When individuals engage in social interaction with each other, they cannot be completely certain of their conversational partners’ current goals, emotional states, beliefs, attitudes, and future actions. Individuals also harbor uncertainties about how they should act toward their partners. These uncertainties are maximal when strangers meet, but uncertainties can also arise in close relationships of long duration. Uncertainty Reduction Theory (URT; Berger & Calabrese 1975) proposes that individuals must reduce their uncertainties to some degree in order to be able to fashion verbal discourse and actions that will allow them to achieve their interaction goals.

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URT has found purchase in explaining social interaction in intercultural (Gudykunst 1995) and organizational (Kramer 2004) communication contexts. Individuals may experience uncertainty with respect to their relationships with each other, and individuals may not necessarily be motivated to reduce their uncertainty when they anticipate experiencing negative outcomes by so doing.

Interpersonal Adaption

When individuals converse, they show strong proclivities to reciprocate each other’s verbal and nonverbal behaviors. Although the forces for reciprocity in social interaction are highly pervasive, there are conditions under which interacting individuals will show compensation in response to each other’s behaviors. Compensation occurs when a behavior displayed by one person is not matched in some way by another. A number of alternative theories have been devised to illuminate the conditions under which reciprocity and compensation are likely to occur, especially with respect to nonverbal behaviors. Although these theories differ in terms of their explanations for reciprocity/compensation, they share a common assumption that when expectations for nonverbal behavior are violated, individuals tend to experience arousal. Research comparing these theories has been inconclusive and has prompted the development of Interaction Adaptation Theory (Burgoon et al. 2010).

Message Production

Just as language is a tool for attaining everyday goals, social interaction is an instrument for goal achievement. Consistent with this proposition, constructivist researchers have endeavored to determine the characteristics of messages deemed to be effective for achieving a variety of goals, most of them concerned with persuasion. A more comprehensive and abstract message production theory labeled Action Assembly Theory (Greene 1997) has been developed to explain how individuals produce actions and discourse. Theories featuring such knowledge structures as scripts and plans have also been devised (Berger 1997). According to these Goal- Plan-Action (GPA) theories (Dillard et al. 2002), scripts and plans are hierarchically organized knowledge structures representing action sequences that will bring about the achievement of goals. Once goals are activated, these knowledge structures guide actions toward goal attainment.

Interpersonal communication plays a critical role in the development, maintenance, and deterioration of social and personal relationships. A central question researchers have sought to answer is why some relationships become closer over time while others grow distant and perhaps end. Social exchange theories have frequently been invoked to explain why relationship growth and deterioration occur (Roloff 1981). These theories suggest that individuals experience both rewards for and costs of being in relationships with each other. Favorable relative reward/cost ratios fuel relationship growth, whereas unfavorable ratios are associated with relationship deterioration. Relational dialectics researchers contend that the development of relationships is fraught with dialectical tensions that may serve to pull individuals in opposite directions simultaneously (Baxter & Montgomery 1996). Because tensions between these polarities shift over time, relationships are in a constant state of flux.

Deceptive Communication

Many interpersonal communication researchers recognize that deception is an integral part of social interaction. Many times ‘white lies’ are told to help co-interlocutors save face when potentially embarrassing circumstances arise in social situations. Two enduring questions concerning deceptive communication have attracted considerable research attention. One of these concerns the degree to which engaging in deception alters nonverbal behaviors; i.e. do truth tellers’ nonverbal behaviors differ systematically from those of individuals who are telling lies? Specific behaviors may be diagnostic of deceptive communication in specific individuals; however, no universal nonverbal indicator of deceptive communication has yet been identified. The second enduring question is the degree to which individuals are skilled at detecting deception. Research has shown that most individuals, including law-enforcement professionals, are not very adept at detecting deception.

Increasingly, social interaction is being accomplished through various communication technologies. These developments have prompted a concomitant increase in research aimed at understanding their potential individual and social effects. Research has sought to determine how computer-mediated communication (CMC) and face-to-face (FtF) interaction differ with respect the outcomes associated with their use (Walther 2010). Because text-based CMC filters out many nonverbal cues available to people engaged in FtF interactions, it is presumed that communication via textbased CMC is more task focused than is FtF communication. Although relatively cue-deprived, text-based CMC venues may be useful for initially encountering and screening potential friends and romantic partners, they apparently do not afford sufficient information for developing close relationships. Individuals who initially meet in the textbased CMC world usually elect to communicate with each other through other channels, e.g., phone and FtF encounters.

References:

Baxter, L. A. & Montgomery, B. M. (1996). Relating: Dialogues and dialectics. New York: Guilford.
Berger, C. R. (1997). Planning strategic interaction: Attaining goals through communicative action. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum.
Berger, C. R. & Calabrese, R. J. (1975). Some explorations in initial interaction and beyond: Toward a developmental theory of interpersonal communication. Human Communication Research, 1, 99–112.
Burgoon, J. K., Floyd, K., & Guerrero, L. K. (2010). Nonverbal communication theories of interaction adaptation. In C. R. Berger, M. E. Roloff, & D. R. Roskos-Ewoldsen (eds.), Handbook of communication science, 2nd edn. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, pp. 93–108.
Dillard, J. P., Anderson, J. W., & Knobloch, L. K. (2002). Interpersonal influence. In M. L. Knapp & J. A. Daly (eds.), Handbook of interpersonal communication, 3rd edn. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, pp. 425–474.
Greene, J. O. (1997). A second generation action assembly theory. In J. O. Greene (ed.), Message production: Advances in communication theory. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum, pp. 151–170.
Gudykunst, W. B. (1995). Anxiety/uncertainty management (AUM) theory. In R. L. Wiseman (ed.), Intercultural communication theory. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, pp. 8–58.
Kramer, M. W. (2004). Managing uncertainty in organizational communication. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum.
Roloff, M. E. (1981). Interpersonal communication: The social exchange approach. Beverly Hills, CA: Sage.
Walther, J. B. (2010). Computer-mediated communication. In C. R. Berger, M. E. Roloff, & D. R. Roskos- Ewoldsen (eds.), Handbook of communication science, 2nd edn. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, pp. 489–505.

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10 Research Question Examples to Guide Your Research Project

10 Research Question Examples to Guide your Research Project

Published on October 30, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on October 19, 2023.

The research question is one of the most important parts of your research paper , thesis or dissertation . It’s important to spend some time assessing and refining your question before you get started.

The exact form of your question will depend on a few things, such as the length of your project, the type of research you’re conducting, the topic , and the research problem . However, all research questions should be focused, specific, and relevant to a timely social or scholarly issue.

Once you’ve read our guide on how to write a research question , you can use these examples to craft your own.

Note that the design of your research question can depend on what method you are pursuing. Here are a few options for qualitative, quantitative, and statistical research questions.

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Published on 1.4.2024 in Vol 26 (2024)

Response of Unvaccinated US Adults to Official Information About the Pause in Use of the Johnson & Johnson–Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine: Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Response of unvaccinated us adults to official information about the pause in use of the johnson & johnson–janssen covid-19 vaccine: cross-sectional survey study.

Authors of this article:

Research Letter

Vishala Mishra 1 * , MBBS, MMCi ;
Joseph P Dexter 2, 3, 4 * , PhD

1 Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States

2 Data Science Initiative, Harvard University, Allston, MA, United States

3 Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States

4 Institute of Collaborative Innovation, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao

*all authors contributed equally

Corresponding Author:

Joseph P Dexter, PhD

Data Science Initiative

Harvard University

Science and Engineering Complex 1.312-10

150 Western Avenue

Allston, MA, 02134

United States

Phone: 1 8023381330

Email: [email protected]

Using a rapid response web-based survey, we identified gaps in public understanding of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s messaging about the pause in use of the Johnson & Johnson–Janssen COVID-19 vaccine and estimated changes in vaccine hesitancy using counterfactual questions.

Introduction

On April 13, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration recommended a pause in use of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J)–Janssen COVID-19 vaccine due to 6 reports of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in recently vaccinated individuals [ 1 ]. The announcement of the pause required development of a coordinated communication strategy under extreme time pressure and careful messaging by stakeholders to mitigate reduced public confidence in COVID-19 vaccines [ 2 ]. Moreover, official communication efforts had to consider the potential influence of already widespread misinformation about the vaccines on attitudes toward the pause [ 3 , 4 ]. In this survey study, we evaluated understanding and impressions of the CDC’s public web-based information about the J&J-Janssen pause among unvaccinated US adults.

Web-Based Survey About J&J-Janssen Pause

We administered the web-based survey to two cohorts of US adults recruited through Prolific between April 19-21, 2021 (cohort A), and April 21-23, 2021 (cohort B). Both cohorts were assembled using convenience sampling of unvaccinated adults. To obtain information about a population that especially needed targeted vaccine communication, the first cohort was restricted to individuals expressing neutral or negative sentiments about COVID-19 vaccines. The survey design and recruitment strategy are described in Multimedia Appendix 1 ; the survey questions are provided in Multimedia Appendices 2 and 3 .

Ethical Considerations

The study was approved by Harvard University’s Committee on the Use of Human Subjects (IRB20-2089), and participants agreed to a consent statement on the first page of the survey. Participants were paid US $2 for taking the survey. All study data were collected anonymously.

A total of 271 and 286 participants were included in cohorts A and B, respectively (demographic characteristics listed in Table 1 ). Across participants, the median number of correct responses to the comprehension questions was 6 in both cohort A (IQR 1.5; range 0-7) and cohort B (IQR 1.0; range 1-7). The total number of correct responses was negatively associated with intention not to seek vaccination in both cohort A (odds ratio 0.61, 95% CI 0.45-0.82; P =.001) and cohort B (odds ratio 0.48, 95% CI 0.31-0.74; P =.001; Multimedia Appendix 4 ). Although a majority of participants rated the passages as “clear and easy to read” (cohort A: n=229, 84.5%; cohort B: n=243, 85%), fewer indicated that they would be likely to share them on social media (cohort A: n=53, 19.6%; cohort B: n=75, 26.3%).

The web page mentioned “a small number of reports” of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in individuals who received the J&J-Janssen vaccine. When asked to guess a specific number, 188 (69.4%) and 133 (46.5%) respondents in cohorts A and B, respectively, estimated 100 or more cases, at least an order of magnitude higher than the actual value; 176 (64.9%) and 128 (44.8%) respondents in cohorts A and B, respectively, estimated 10 or more deaths after vaccination ( Figure 1 ).

Responding to a counterfactual question, 127 (46.9%) and 139 (48.6%) participants in cohorts A and B, respectively, indicated that the pause reduced their confidence in the J&J-Janssen vaccine’s safety ( Figure 1 ). Most participants reported no change in their confidence in COVID-19 vaccines’ safety in general (cohort A: n=182, 67.2%; cohort B: n=194, 67.8%) or intention to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine (cohort A: n=206, 76%; cohort B: n=211, 73.8%).

a Participants could select more than one option.

b Includes participants who selected “American Indian or Alaska Native,” “Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander,” or “Another option not listed here.”

c Number of participants who gave the correct answer to each question.

d Number of participants who gave the indicated number of correct answers across all questions.

e Number of participants who answered “Strongly agree” or “Agree” about each description on a 6-point Likert scale.

In our web-based survey about the CDC’s messaging around the J&J-Janssen vaccine pause, many respondents overestimated the number of case reports that prompted the pause, often by several orders of magnitude. Since verbal descriptors are elastic concepts that can be misinterpreted, grounding them with numbers can reduce variability in risk perception and promote informed decision-making [ 5 ].

Respondents also expressed reduced confidence in the safety of the J&J-Janssen vaccine, highlighting the potential danger of conveying piecemeal information about risk during a pandemic response [ 3 ]. Encouragingly, the reduced confidence did not extend to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, consistent with previous findings that overall vaccine hesitancy remained stable following the pause [ 6 ]. These results were obtained using the counterfactual format, which is less susceptible to overestimating shifts in beliefs than the change format ( Multimedia Appendix 1 ). The negative association between understanding of the passage and self-reported vaccine hesitancy suggests that more targeted messaging may have been useful to promote vaccine confidence [ 7 , 8 ].

Consistent with uncertainty management theory [ 9 ], individuals likely viewed the pause in different ways, leading to a spectrum of emotional responses and changes in behavior. Despite being a safety precaution, the pause introduced new uncertainties requiring effective management through clear and consistent messaging, highlighting the balance that must be maintained between fostering trust and preventing unnecessary alarm [ 10 ]. Given the limitations of the deficit model of scientific communication [ 11 ], just providing technically correct information is insufficient for effective communication during public health crises. Instead, attention should be given to the accessibility of information across diverse socioeconomic groups, in line with the knowledge gap hypothesis [ 12 ], and to countering misinformation by providing easy-to-use official guidance [ 6 , 7 ].

The study is limited by the convenience sampling strategy; the participants recruited were not representative of the US population as a whole, and the findings should not be generalized to other contexts. Since the study was conducted on the web, individuals with lower internet and health literacy may have been excluded.

Acknowledgments

We thank Vasudha Mishra, MBBS, for assistance with graphic design. This work was supported by a CoronaVirusFacts Alliance Grant from the Poynter Institute, a Harvard Data Science Fellowship, and the Institute of Collaborative Innovation at the University of Macau.

Data Availability

The data sets generated during this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Conflicts of Interest

None declared.

Additional information about survey methodology.

Survey administered to cohort A.

Survey administered to cohort B.

Supplemental tables about survey questions and ordinal logistic regression analysis.

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Abbreviations

Edited by A Mavragani; submitted 25.08.22; peer-reviewed by M Graham, T Ginossar, A Scherer; comments to author 25.01.23; revised version received 26.05.23; accepted 29.12.23; published 01.04.24.

©Vishala Mishra, Joseph P Dexter. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 01.04.2024.

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work, first published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, is properly cited. The complete bibliographic information, a link to the original publication on https://www.jmir.org/, as well as this copyright and license information must be included.

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