Human Communication Research at a crossroads

Reaffirming Standards, Reimagining Possibilities

Bibliographic Data

ID3356352
AuthorsTai-Quan Peng (0000-0002-2588-7491, Michigan State University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Publication date2025-09-19
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueHuman Communication Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0360-3989 • E-ISSN: 1468-2958
PublisherOxford University Press (OUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1093/hcr/hqaf021
OpenAlexW4414378639
LanguageEN
References cited22

As Human Communication Research begins a new editorial chapter, this editorial reaffirms the journal's longstanding commitment to theory-driven scholarship while addressing recurring challenges that shape how communication research is conceptualized, designed, and interpreted. Drawing from editorial experience and field-wide observations, I identify ten patterns-such as sidelining theory, prioritizing statistical effects over explanatory mechanisms, and equating analytical complexity with conceptual rigor-that signal misalignments between empirical practice and theoretical ambition. These challenges are mapped onto Chaffee and Berger's classic evaluative criteria to clarify where theoretical contributions often falter. In response, I outline an editorial vision centered on conceptual coherence, methodological alignment, and integrative theorizing. The editorial also introduces Commentaries and Catalysts, a new column designed to foreground theoretical insight and foster cross-paradigm dialogue. Together, these reflections aim to support authors and reviewers while inviting engagement with the standards, possibilities, and evolving responsibilities of cumulative theory-building in communication research

Discourse Analysis in Language Studies