Theorizing Crisis Communication presents a comprehensive review and critique of the broad range of theoretical frameworks designed to explain the role of communication in the development, management, and consequences of natural and man-made crises. Brings together the variety of theoretical approaches emerging in the study of crisis communication into one volume for the first time. Summarizes theories from such diverse perspectives as rhetoric, risk management, ethics, mass communication, social media, emergency response, crisis outcomes, and warning systems, while presenting clear examples of how the theory is applied in crisis communication research Presents theoretical frameworks generated by research from many disciplines including sociology, psychology, applied anthropology, public health, public relations, political science, organizational studies, and criminal justice An essential tool for a comprehensive understanding of the onset, management, response, resolution, and ultimate meaning of these devastating world events

Author Biography

Timothy L. Sellnow is Professor of Communication andAssociate Dean for Graduate Studies in Communication at theUniversity of Kentucky. Dr. Sellnow s interdisciplinaryresearch on risk and crisis communication appears in an array ofrefereed journals, handbooks, and edited volumes. He has alsoco-authored five books on risk and crisis communication. Dr.Sellnow frequently serves as a consultant for Fortune 500 companiesin the food industry and government agencies such as the UnitedStates Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of HomelandSecurity (DHS) on risk and crisis communication planning. Matthew W. Seeger is Dean of the College of Fine,Performing and Communication Arts and a Professor of Communicationat Wayne State University in Detroit. His work on crisis, risk andcommunication has appeared in over 100 journal articles, bookchapters, and conference proceedings. Seeger is the author orco-author of six books on organizational communication ethics andcrisis and risk communication. Dr. Seeger also frequently serves asan advisor to the auto industry, manufacturing organizations andgovernment agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention (CDC), on topics related to crisis management.