Metacommunication: A Re-Examination and Extension

Abstract

The concept of “metacommunication” is examined in its historical context by noting the foundations of the concept. Then some of the conceptual ambiguities of the term are discussed with recommendations for discarding the analogic/digital distinction that has become common in the field of communication. Two levels of metacommunication—relationship and episodic, are postulated as providing conceptual clarity in the use of the term. Finally, extant research on metacommunication is examined and future directions for our inquiry are recommended.