Uncertainty reduction theory Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Uncertainty reduction theory - Term Paper Example Therefore, the importance of the uncertainty reduction theory in communication can be explained with the statement offered by Heath and Bryant (2000). As the authors emphasize, the uncertainty reduction theory is based on the statement that the key aim of the communication process between two people is to reduce the uncertainty, and get to know each other by applying various communication strategies, including passive observation, active assessment, and interpersonal communication. Theoretical Discussion The bases of the uncertainty reduction theory are linked with the concept that people will try to get to know as much as possible about each other by using various communication channels. Considering the fact that their uncertainty can be observed through behavioral and cognitive factors, it should be emphasized, that the general premise of the theory is linked with the necessity to adapt behavior and communication in order to find the most suitable behavioral pattern. Additionally, people tend to find out the opponent’s opinion, as well as formulate their own one about the other communicator. The further reduction of uncertainty can be observed on the relational communication level, and the key premise of this transition is linked with the statement that people become highly motivated in advancing the communication level, in order to reduce uncertainty, and reach certain goals. The key terms of the theory are grounded on the interaction patterns, applied by the strangers. Moreover, Berger and Calabrese (in Kramer, 2004), the founders of the theory, divide the interaction into three key stages that can be regarded as the liking or disliking communication factors: The entry stage is aimed at creating the first opinion, and development of the initial behavioral pattern. This is also featured by the use of the behavioral norms, commonly accepted within the society, while the character of the information exchanged (either verbal or nonverbal) is often of the demographic or transactional nature. The personal stage involves interaction initiation when the basic information concerning the stranger’s beliefs and attitudes is found out. This stage can be entered only after several entry stages. The interacting individuals start probing each other for the particular attitudes, values, and personal features of character. This stage is also featured with the emerging of particular emotions towards each other. The exit stage is also regarded as the decision-taking phase of the relations development. Therefore, people have enough information concerning each other, and they decide whether they have sympathy towards another person, or not. This stage is featured with the decisions whether the further relations will be developed. Therefore, clear understanding of the communication cycles is crucial for studying the behavioral and communication patterns, people resort to, in order to reduce their uncertainty about each other. The key paradigm of the uncertainty reduction theory falls under the premise that people feel uncomfortable when they know nothing about each other, and the communication process between two communicators is turned into getting to know as much information as possible about each other. The uncertainty reduction makes collocutors feel less uncomfortable. However, considering the basic theorems of the theory, it should be emphasized that the actual