A theoretical extension of issue status management: An extension of the four argumentative strategies

William Timothy Coombs, Purdue University

Abstract

Although experiencing rapid growth in the past decade, issue management has come under increasing criticism. This criticism stems from the failure to articulate issue management as a distinct perspective from which to view corporate discourse. This dissertation clarifies issue management through the theoretical extension of the argumentative strategies utilized in issue status management. Upon completion of the theoretical extension, the revised argumentative strategies were tested. A case study analysis was conducted to determine if the revised strategies could provide insights into the case not possible with the original treatment of the strategies. The test was successful as the revised strategies provided understanding of the case study not possible with the original treatment of the strategies. The theoretical extension of the argumentative strategies is an important step in the evolution of issue management and its articulation as a distinct perspective for the examination of corporate rhetoric.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Crable, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Communication|Mass media

COinS