Faculty Profiles

Dr. Meredith M. Turner is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Texas State University, where she teaches courses in interpersonal communication, the dark side of communication, science communication, and communication research methods. Dr. Turner earned her Ph.D. in Communication from the University of Connecticut in 2026. She earned her M.A. and B.A. in Communication Studies from California State University, Fullerton, in 2020 and 2018, respectively.

Areas of Interest: Interpersonal Communication, Personality & Individual Differences, The Dark Side of Communication, Manipulation & Interpersonal Influence, Relational Maintenance, Psychological & Physiological Processes, Science Communication, Close Relationships

Dr. Turner’s research examines how individual differences and psychological processes shape communication in close relationships. Her primary work focuses on manipulation and interpersonal influence, relational maintenance, attachment, and intimacy, with particular attention to how these processes affect relational outcomes. She also studies biosocial processes in communication and communication in digital and science-related contexts. Her research uses a range of quantitative approaches, including longitudinal, dyadic, meta-analytic, and computational methods.

Dr. Turner’s teaching emphasizes the practical value of communication in students’ personal, relational, and professional lives. She strives to create an open and engaging learning environment that encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and the real-world application of communication theory and research. Her courses emphasize active learning and encourage students to connect communication concepts to their own experiences, interests, and future careers.