Janet Bavelas' research team specializes in the study of face-to-face dialogue in both the experimental lab and applied settings. Our basic research focuses on identifying the unique features of face-to-face dialogue, especially (a) reciprocal influence and collaboration and (b) visible actions that are integrated with speech (e.g., hand and facial gestures).

This research has applications in psychotherapy, medical communication, and any other setting where dialogue is important. Our primary research method is microanalysis of dialogue–the reliable, moment-by-moment analysis of video recordings of actual dialogues.