CMN 2130 Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Uncertainty Reduction Theory, Onboarding
27 Jan 2017
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Document Summary
Noted initial interactions between individuals followed predictable patterns of information-gathering. Uncertainty reduction is important in relationship development because: as information is gathered through observation and interaction can be used to predict a person"s behavior. Theory states; people often feel uncertainty about other other don"t know and are motivated to communicate in order to reduce that uncertainty. The process undergoes predictable developmental stages, indicating changes in the quantity and type of information shared between individuals: verbal output. High levels of verbal output correlate positively with a greater reduction in uncertainty higher levels of communication intimacy, similarity between individuals and liking: nonverbal warmth. Positive signs in a person"s gestures and body language that indicate a willingness to communicate of form a relationship: information seeking. Individuals wish to know more about each other. Information can be obtained passively through observation or interactively through conversation: self-disclosure.
