"Comprehensive and far-reaching -- Intercultural Communication Theory brings together current theories on this important and ever-growing area. The text advances some of the work from previous International and Intercultural Communication Annuals, and also introduces new theoretical developments. These diverse explanatory approaches offer guidelines for investigating the complex phenomenon of intercultural communication. The theories in this text range in their approach, from systems theory to ethnographic analyses, and focus on a range of intercultural theories, from accommodation theory to cultural intolerance. Part I provides an overview of the role of theory in intercultural communication research. Part II includes theories on intercultural communication competence and adaptation, and Part III focuses on specific contexts for intercultural communication, such as health and small groups. Book jacket."--Jacket.