Researching Interpersonal Relationships

Book excerpt: Researching Interpersonal Relationships: Qualitative Methods, Studies, and Analysis, by Jimmie Manning and Adrianne Kunkel, explores and demonstrates methodological tools and theories used to guide relationships research, especially studies of interpersonal communication. Featuring chapters illustrated by research studies conducted by leading communication scholars, this book introduces both classic and cutting-edge methodological approaches to qualitative inquiry and analysis. Each chapter highlights a particular method, context, and analytical tool. Through the methodological and analytical overviews, illustrative research studies, and post-study interviews with the researchers, readers can better understand how qualitative research approaches can expand and solidify understandings of personal relationships.