Radical changes in communication technology have had a profound effect on our ability to interpersonally communicate. Cell phones keep us in almost constant contact with friends, family members, colleagues, and romantic partners. Our ability to communicate easily and frequently, even when separated by geographic distance, is further enhanced through online communication. In this book, we treat such technologies as tools for connecting people interpersonally—tools that are now thoroughly integrated into our lives. In every chapter, you’ll find frequent mention of these technologies as they relate to the chapter’s specific topics.