Question

Identification of a Communication Theory: Uncertainty Reduction Theory

Meta-theoretical Assumptions: How would the author of your theory define communication? Which of the 7 issues in defining communication discussed in class would be most important to the author of your theory? How do you know?

Answer 1

Uncertainty reduction theory is an initial interaction theory that emphasizes the importance of prima facie communication, which happens much before than actual interaction. It demonstrates that people require information about the other party to avoid uncertainty in connection. The only way to get initial information about the person is to assess his actions concerning any behavior. Behavior is the only way to get the initial information.

A series of axioms and theorems are required to get primary information about a person. There are seven variables to demonstrate the fundamental information, which are divided into two parts cognitive uncertainty and behavioral uncertainty. Strategies to understand the uncertainty are as follows:

· Passive strategy

· Active strategy

· Interactive uncertainty

Seven issues in defining communication discussed in class would be most relevant to the author of your theory:

· Communication uncertainty due to interpersonal settings

· Communication uncertainty due to cognitive stress

· Communication uncertainty due to poor predictability

· Uncertainty in communication due to lack of proper information

· Communication uncertainty due to lack of information adaptability

· Communication issue due to lack of initial attraction

· Communication uncertainty due to behavioral uncertainty

I have known because all the issues mentioned above are strongly related to the different stages of communication uncertainty. The uncertainty reduction theory was only developed to reduce all kinds of uncertainty from communication. Thus, I have identified all the seven issues in defining communication discussed in class.