This paper is a preliminary attempt to specify what "interpersonal confirmation" is by classifying and categorizing its observable phenomena as they occur in human interaction. It considers the problems in defining operationally this highly significant, but nebulous, aspect of communication and reviews the literature which alludes to confirmation and disconfirmation or provides descriptive material from which empirical indicators can be derived. Finally, it synthesizes and systematizes the indicators into a paradigm of four hierarchical levels, which permits testing of posited relationships and outcomes. The paper reports research procedures that refined and validated the model, as well as related research which has utilized the concept of interpersonal Confirmation. (Author)