Uncertainty Reduction Theory Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the main idea of Unertanty Reduction Theory?
When people meet, their primary goal is to reduce uncertainty about each other to make communication more predictable.
What are the theoretical assumptions of Uncertainty Reduction Theory?
- Uncertainty is uncomfortable.
- People are motivated to reduce it.
- Communication reduces uncertainty.
- The more we know someone, the less uncertain we are.
What is the entry phase of an interaction in Uncertainty Reduction Theory?
The beginning of a conversation where people follow social norms and rules (small talk)
What is the personal phase of interaction in Uncertainty Reduction Theory?
A stage where people begin sharing personal attitudes, beliefs, and values.
What is the exit phase of interaction in Uncertainty Reduction Theory?
A decision point of whether to continue the relationship or end it.
Name the 7 axioms of Uncertainty Reduction Theory
- As verbal communication increases, uncertainty decreases.
(And as uncertainty decreases, verbal communication increases.) - As nonverbal expressiveness increases, uncertainty decreases.
(More expressive body language → more predictability.) - High uncertainty causes increased information-seeking behavior.
(We ask more questions or try to learn more.) - High uncertainty leads to higher reciprocity.
(When we don’t know someone well, we tend to match the other person’s level of self-disclosure.) - High uncertainty leads to lower levels of intimacy.
(Uncertainty makes people cautious about sharing personal details.) - More similarities between people reduce uncertainty.
(Shared values or interests make people feel more comfortable.) - Increases in uncertainty produce decreases in liking.
(We tend to like people less when we’re unsure about them.)
What are strategies for managing uncertainty?
- **Passive: **Observing from a distance
- Active: Asking third parties or planning scenarios
- Interactive: Direct conversation with the person
What is the difference between explanatory breadth and predictive power in a theory?
Explanatory breadth: How well a theory explains a wide range of situations
Predictive power: How well it predicts outcomes in specific situations
What is the uncertainty management theory update to Uncertainty Reduction Theory?
Not all uncertainty is bad and some people manage, tolerate, or even prefer uncertainty
What is reactivity searching?
Watching how someone responds in a natural setting
seeing their reaction to a joke
What is disinhibition searching?
Observing someone in informal or relaxed settings
at a party or online
What is the third-party strategy?
Asking others about the person you’re trying to understand
What is planning in Uncertainty Reduction Theory?
Developing strategies to reduce uncertainty before an interaction.
What is hedging in?
Using vague or indirect language to test how someone will respond
just wondering if…
Pat asks a new coworker lots of personal questions. Which uncertainty reduction strategy is Pat using?
A. Passive
B. Active
C. Interactive
D. Hedging
interactive
