Interpersonal Communication Theories Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does Social Penetration Theory predict?

As relationships develop, communication increases in breadth and depth (correct)

Relationships are formed based on effort worth

People maintain relationships where benefits outweigh costs

People seek to reduce uncertainty about others

What is the Uncertainty Reduction Theory?

A theory suggesting that people are motivated to reduce their uncertainty about others.

What does Predicted Outcome Value Theory state?

A theory predicting that we form relationships when we think the effort will be worth it.

What is Social Exchange Theory?

A theory predicting that people seek to form and maintain relationships in which the benefits outweigh the costs. Signup and view all the answers

What does Equity Theory predict?

A theory predicting that a good relationship is one in which a person's ratio of cost and rewards is equal to that of the partner. Signup and view all the answers

What does Communication Privacy Management Theory explain?

Theory that explains how people manage the tension between privacy and disclosure. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes Attraction Theory?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

As relationships develop, communication expands both in breadth (variety of topics) and depth (intimacy of topics).
Focuses on the gradual process of revealing personal information.

Uncertainty Reduction Theory

Suggests individuals seek to reduce uncertainty in relationships with others.
Motivated by the need to predict and understand others’ behaviors and intentions.

Predicted Outcome Value Theory

Proposes people evaluate potential relationships based on perceived value or worth of the effort involved.
Relationships are pursued if expected benefits outweigh costs and challenges.

Posits that individuals assess relationships based on a cost-benefit analysis.
People are inclined to maintain relationships when the perceived benefits exceed the perceived costs.

Equity Theory

Highlights the importance of fairness in relationships, suggesting that individuals seek equitable ratios of costs and rewards.
A relationship is considered satisfactory when both partners perceive their contributions and benefits as balanced.

Communication Privacy Management Theory

Explores how individuals balance the desire for privacy with the need for disclosure in their relationships.
Emphasizes rules and boundaries governing information sharing.

Attraction Theory

Discusses various forms of attraction, including interpersonal, physical, social, and task-oriented.
Suggests different factors influence how and why individuals are drawn to one another.

Description

This quiz features key theories related to interpersonal communication, including concepts like Social Penetration Theory and Uncertainty Reduction Theory. Test your knowledge on how relationships develop and the motivations behind communication. Perfect for students and enthusiasts of communication studies.