Communication plays a vital role in our daily lives. It helps us share ideas, express emotions, and connect with others. But have you ever experienced a moment when someone’s behavior surprised you, either positively or negatively? That’s where Expectancy Violations Theory comes into play. In this article, we explore the key concepts and theories behind Expectancy Violations Theory. Thus, this theory can help us better understand these unexpected communication breakthroughs.
What is Expectancy Violations Theory?
Expectancy Violations Theory (EVT) is a theory in the field of communication that explores how people respond when their expectations regarding communication behavior are violated. Developed by Judee K. Burgoon, EVT suggests that people hold certain expectations about how others should behave in different social contexts. When someone’s behavior deviates from these expectations, it can result in either positive or negative emotional and cognitive responses.
Breaking the Expectation Barrier
Expectations are like a roadmap guiding our interactions. They are shaped by cultural norms, personal experiences, and social cues. When someone behaves in a way that aligns with our expectations, we feel comfortable and satisfied. However, when their behavior violates our expectations, it can create a “communication breakthrough” moment.
Positive Violations: The Pleasant Surprises
Positive violations occur when someone’s behavior exceeds our expectations in a positive way. Imagine your teacher unexpectedly praising your hard work or a friend surprising you with an unexpected gift. These positive violations can lead to feelings of happiness, surprise, and even admiration. Furthermore, they help strengthen relationships and create a sense of connection and appreciation.
Negative Violations: The Unpleasant Shocks
Negative violations, on the other hand, occur when someone’s behavior falls below our expectations or invades our personal space. For example, if a stranger stands too close to you in an elevator, it might make you uncomfortable. Negative violations often result in feelings of annoyance, anger, or discomfort. Thus, they can damage relationships and lead to a breakdown in communication.
Reacting to Violations According to Expectancy Violations Theory
How we react to violations depends on various factors, such as our individual personalities, cultural backgrounds, and the nature of the relationship. EVT suggests that there are two primary ways we respond to violations: reciprocation or compensation.
Reciprocation: Matching Behavior
Reciprocation occurs when we respond to a violation by matching the other person’s behavior. For instance, if someone greets you with a warm smile, you are more likely to smile back. Reciprocation helps maintain balance and harmony in social interactions.
Compensation: Adjusting Behavior
Compensation, on the other hand, involves adjusting our behavior to counterbalance the violation. For example, if someone invades our personal space, we might take a step back to reclaim our comfort zone. Thus, compensation aims to restore equilibrium in communication and create a more comfortable environment.
The Role of ‘Expectancy’ in Expectancy Violations Theory
Expectancy, as the foundation of EVT, influences our reactions to violations. Burgoon suggests that we have three types of expectations:
- Predictive Expectations: These expectations are based on our assumptions about how others will behave. For example, we expect a salesperson to be persuasive or a teacher to be knowledgeable.
- Prescriptive Expectations: These expectations focus on the social norms and rules that dictate appropriate behavior in specific situations. For instance, we expect people to maintain personal space in an elevator.
- Relational Expectations: These expectations are related to the specific relationship we have with someone. For example, we expect our best friend to be trustworthy and supportive.
Understanding the Effects of Expectancy Violations Theory
Expectancy Violations Theory has several implications for communication and relationships:
- Increased Awareness: EVT helps us become more aware of our expectations and the impact they have on our interactions with others.
- Relationship Development: Positive violations can enhance relationships by creating positive surprises and fostering a sense of closeness.
- Trust and Predictability: Violations can challenge trust and predictability. Negative violations can lead to discomfort, mistrust, and strained relationships.
- Cultural Differences: Cultural norms and expectations vary across different cultures, influencing how we interpret and respond to violations.
Conclusion
Expectancy Violations Theory provides valuable insights into the dynamics of communication and the impact of violations on relationships. By understanding the role of expectations and how they can be violated, we navigate communication breakthroughs with greater empathy and understanding. Remember, communication is a two-way street. Therefore, being aware of the power of expectations can help us build stronger connections with others.
References
Burgoon, J. K. (1978). A communication model of personal space violations: Explication and an initial test. Human Communication Research, 4(2), 129-142.
Burgoon, J. K. (1993). Interpersonal expectations, expectancy violations, and emotional communication. Journal of Language and Social Psychology, 12(1-2), 30-48.