Crisis Communication Management

Applying Theory to Real Cases (First Edition)
Keith M. Hearit
©2026, 414 pages

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Crisis Communication Management

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$76.95

Summary
    Crisis Communication Management: Applying Theory to Real Cases combines theoretical insights with practical case studies to provide readers with a comprehensive look at crisis management and communication. The book’s foundational premise is that crises, although complex and multifaceted, are a predictable feature of modern organizational life. It explores crises in multiple contexts and examines the stages they typically progress through, emphasizing the critical role of communication at each juncture.

    With a structure that guides readers from basics to in-depth knowledge, the book covers essential topics such as the role of organizations as social actors, the dynamics of social movements, the rhetorical resonance of victims, and the legal and ethical implications of crises. It addresses societal perceptions of guilt, the impact of words in crises, typical communication responses organizations may rely on, and offers realistic appraisals of their effectiveness. The text concludes with a discussion of the treatment of day-to-day crisis management, furnishing readers with actionable guidance on communication techniques and how to manage media relations.

    Recognizing crises as normal occurrences rather than exceptions, Crisis Communication Management underscores the importance of preparedness and equips students with critical skills for a world where crisis management is increasingly relevant.

    Keith M. Hearit is a professor of communication at Western Michigan University. A leading expert in the field of crisis management, Dr. Hearit specializes in how individuals and institutions respond communicatively to atypical situations, particularly those of their own creation. In addition to authoring Crisis Management by Apology: Corporate Response to Allegations of Wrongdoing, he is also the author of numerous journal articles and book chapters. Dr. Hearit holds a Ph.D. in public affairs and issue management from Purdue University.
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    $89.95 Paperback
    978-1-7935-6633-1
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    Other formats (perforated, hardcover, etc.) may be available. Contact us for course adoptions; specialty formats are not available for individual purchase.
    Adopting instructors will receive PowerPoints, test banks, and a crisis simulation.
    "I want to commend Dr. Hearit for the work he has put forward in developing this textbook. Clearly his commitment and knowledge of the field make him strongly qualified to put forward a refreshed approach to crisis communication. […] The Hearit text offers much for students preparing for professional work, and it is likely most valuable for those students looking to pursue graduate level communication studies or business degrees. …. {The text is] a substantial contribution to the crisis communication body of knowledge."
    Mark S Cox, Old Dominion University

    "There is a need for a new textbook that is presented with a unique yet fresh approach to combining content with cases to help students better understand how to effectively handle crises. […] I most appreciated the writing style of the text. It’s easy to read and connect with. Our students will definitely appreciate this writing style. […] The author’s ability to write in a fun tone for students to remain engaged with a good variety of cases [is impressive]."
    Taylor Bryant, University of West Georgia

    "The list of cases is very diverse and provides a rich array of example types and locations. […] I find the writing voice is dynamic and engaging. […] The examples and the author’s presentation of those cases [is very impressive]. The cases are written in a very digestible manner that also includes specific excerpts of communication to analyze."
    Joel O. Iverson, University of Montana

    "I enjoyed the writing style. It was academically rigorous, and yet accessible and engaging. My overall takeaway from this work is that it strikes a fine balance between: a) being academically and technically rigorous; and b) and being clear and applicable to students who have a desire for course material to be clearly relevant to the applied world. "
    Peter Loebach, Arapahoe Community College

    "I like that [the] approach includes theory and practical approaches for experiential learning. […] I love [the writing style] […] the FLOW is exceptional and the descriptions are down to earth yet educational in nature."
    Kirsten D. Whitten, Northeastern University