Dynamic Communication Processes
Research Focus
Communication is worthy of study because it is capable of producing changes in conversation partners and audiences. I draw on longitudinal survey methods, physiological measures, multilevel structural equation modeling, meta-analysis, and dynamic dyadic systems methods to characterize and dissect the causal processes and dynamics that underlie a broad range of communication experiences.
Key Questions
- How do communication patterns evolve over time in relationships?
- What are the causal mechanisms underlying persuasion and influence?
- How do dyadic interactions create feedback loops that shape outcomes?
- What temporal dynamics characterize effective social support?
Methodological Approaches
Longitudinal Methods
- Multi-wave panel surveys
- Experience sampling methods (ESM)
- Daily diary studies
Advanced Statistical Modeling
- Multilevel structural equation modeling (MSEM)
- Latent growth curve modeling
- Cross-lagged panel analysis
- Dynamic systems modeling
Physiological Measures
- Cardiovascular responses
- Electrodermal activity
- Cortisol sampling
- Neuroimaging techniques
Meta-Analysis
- Systematic reviews
- Effect size estimation
- Moderator analysis
Representative Publications
Zhang, X., & Yan, Y. (2023). Social support seeking on Zhihu among Chinese gay men: Self-disclosure, anonymity, and community responses. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 26(7), 518-526. https://doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2022.0364
Contact: zxinyu@msu.edu for collaborations