A Relational Communication Approach to Peer Coaching

In this article, we discuss peer coaching as a relatively new form of coaching practice that expands the relational resources available to individuals focused on change. Peer coaching is a helping relationship that facilitates mutual learning and development to accomplish specific tasks or goals. It is most effective when participants establish high-quality relationships and connections by focusing on both content and process. To enhance such capability we integrate the theory of coordinated management of meaning, a relational communication approach that emphasizes how meaning and learning are created through interpersonal interactions. Coordinated management of meaning models applied in our three-step model of peer coaching demonstrate the value of their application. We then assume a balcony perspective to deepen understanding by incorporating conceptual and empirical work. We conclude by inviting scholars and practitioners to adopt our integrated model to enhance positive outcomes...