Mediated interpersonal communication: Toward a new typology

Abstract

Traditional conceptualizations of communication have excluded media or relegated them to a minor role as components of channel. Furthermore, the exclusive identification of media with “mass communication” has restricted understanding of the symbiotic relationship of media and interpersonal communication. This essay argues that media pervade all dimensions of human communication and must be considered in all research. It examines the category “mediated interpersonal communication” and suggests that it be added to the communication typology.