Applying Communication Theory for Professional Life (PDF)

Updated Edition of Bestseller!

Applying Communication Theory for Professional Life, by Marianne Dainton and Elaine D. Zelley is the first communication theory textbook to provide practical material for career-oriented readers. Featuring new case studies, updated examples, and the latest research, the Fourth Edition of this bestseller introduces communication theory in a way that helps you understand its importance to careers in communication and business. Real-world case studies within each chapter are designed to illustrate the application of theory in a variety of professional settings.

New to the Fourth Edition

• All case studies now include specific questions about ethical issues associated with the narrative of the case and how knowledge of theory can help you negotiate these ethical dilemmas.


• The simulated “Education as Entertainment Theory” includes apps and other new media forms of educational content, keeping you up-to-date with the latest technology.


• Four new case studies have been added to show you how the theories are tied to recent events. The cases are titled:

1.     “You’re Fired”

2.     “Bad Move”

3.     “Million Dollar Manipulation”

4.     “The (New) Media Culture Wars”

• New research and scholarship for all theories can be found in the “Chapter Summaries” and “Research Applications” of each chapter.


• Numerous political examples have been added to reflect the increasingly divergent political rhetoric in the United States.