Book & podcast collection

The Social Biome: How Everyday Communication Connects and Shapes Us

Communication scholars Andy J. Merolla and Jeffrey A. Hall describe human connection as a social biome: an everyday environment of conversations, greetings, shared activities, and small signals of attention that supports well-being. Synthesizing research on relationships and communication, they show that social health depends not only on intimate bonds but also on varied, routine contact with friends, coworkers, neighbors, and strangers. The book explains how isolation disrupts this ecosystem and how modest changes in daily interaction can restore it. It offers a practical, evidence-based way to think about connection as something people actively cultivate.

Publisher: Yale University Press
Publication date: Feb 11, 2025
Format: Print edition
Pages: 256
ISBN: 9780300272147

Subjects

Communication Social Connection Relationships

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Interview with the Author

4 available interview links

1. Friendship Matters — The Social Biome: A New Framework for Meaningful Relationships with Jeffrey HallChecked

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2. The Murmur — Episode 2 with Dr. Jeffrey HallChecked

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3. 10 Seconds To Air — How Everyday Communication Matters To Your Well-Being with Andy Merolla and Jeffrey A. HallChecked

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4. This Changes Everything with Sarah Rice — Strengthening Your Social Biome with Jeffrey A. HallChecked

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