expectancy violations theory Flashcards
What is Expectancy Violations Theory (EVT)?
A theory that explains how people react when their expectations for nonverbal behavior are violated.
What type of communication does EVT focus on?
Initially focused on nonverbal communication, particularly proxemics (physical space), but later expanded to eye gaze, facial expressions, and general communication behaviors.
What is the theoretical approach of EVT?
Empirical/Positivistic – it seeks to explain and predict human behavior through controlled research and generalization.
What are the key assumptions of EVT?
Expectancies for nonverbal behavior drive human interaction.
People learn these expectancies from culture, social norms, and experience.
Individuals make predictions about others’ nonverbal behavior.
What are the contradictory needs that drive human behavior in EVT?
Personal space vs. Affiliation
We want relationships and closeness with others.
We also want our own personal space and boundaries.
What are the four zones of personal space in EVT?
Public space (12-25 feet): Used for public presentations; voice and gestures need exaggeration.
Social space (4-12 feet): Conversations with strangers or coworkers; eye contact guides interaction.
Personal space (1.5-4 feet): Close relationships; features like skin, hair, and teeth are visible.
Intimate space (0-18 inches): Emotionally close; body temperature, breath, and fine details are perceptible.
What factors shape our communication expectancies?
Context factors – Social norms, culture.
Individual factors – Gender, age, personality.
Relational factors – Relationship type (e.g., coworker vs. family).
What happens when someone violates our communication expectations?
Arousal occurs, triggering awareness of the violation.
What are the two types of arousal in EVT?
Cognitive arousal – Mental awareness of the violation.
Physical arousal – Bodily changes (e.g., increased heart rate, sweating).
What is a “threat threshold” in EVT?
The point at which a violation triggers discomfort or distress in response to personal space invasion.
What happens after arousal in EVT?
We evaluate the violation based on:
Violation valence – Was the unexpected behavior positive or negative?
Communicator reward valence – Is the violator a high-reward person? (Only matters if the violation is ambiguous.)
How do people respond to violations?
Positive valence → Improved communication and better interactions.
Negative valence → Decreased communication quality and discomfort.
