ABSTRACT
THEODORE Zorn takes on the task of providing a theoretical basis for our understanding of communication motivation. In so doing, he provides a review of research, highlighted by a framework that points to the deficiencies in several current approaches to the motivation to communicate. His criticism of much of the extant research into communication motivation as lacking a real connection to motivation seems fair and accurate. For several reasons (noted below), I do not find his theoretical approach to motivation compelling. Following a careful examination of Zorn’s theoretical stand, I will recommend an alternative theoretical approach that is now available in the communication literature. I will also provide a suggestion for what I consider an appropriate application of Zorn’s approach to goal theory.
