INTERPERSONAL DECEPTION THEORY

Interpersonal deception theory (IDT) represents a merger of interperso nal communication and deception principles designed to better account for deception in interactive contexts. At the same time, it has the po tential to enlighten theories related to (a) credibility and truthful communication and (b) interpersonal communication. Presented here are key definitions, assumptions related to the critical attributes and ke y features of interpersonal communication and deception, and 18 genera l propositions from which specific testable hypotheses can be derived. Research findings relevant to the propositions are also summarized.