Communicator virtue and vice: Neglected constructs of relational communication?

Abstract

Relational communication theorizing has tended to cast people and interaction in terms of systems, dialectical tensions, uncertainty reduction, social exchange, relational types, stages, and competence, rather than moral or religious terms. This article proposes adoption of an integralist paradigm after Pitirim Sorokin which draws on scientific, rational, and religious epistemes to conceptualize cultural, sociological, and communication issues. A review of selected relational communication studies indicates the relevance of humility, wisdom, industry, faithfulness, and self‐control. Moreover, two studies were performed and results indicate that self‐control is related to believability, trustworthiness, and marital satisfaction. Assumptions and questions for research are discussed.