The Interpersonal Communication Division is interested in communication processes that occur between people. Such processes include (but are not limited to) mutual influence, individuals’ adaptations to others, people’s interpretations and reactions to others’ messages, and so forth. Interpersonal communication occurs in many contexts, such as close relationships, organizations, health, intercultural, intergroup, and many others.  Interpersonal communication also occurs through a variety of channels, including face-to-face interaction, telephone conversations, and interactions via computers.

The division's goal is to encourage theoretical and practical advances in the study of interpersonal communication.