Expectancy Violation Theory: A Game-Changer for Better Communication

 

Have you ever experienced a moment when someone’s behavior caught you off guard? Maybe they stood too close during a conversation, or their tone was unexpectedly harsh. These moments, where the expected norms of communication are breached, can leave us perplexed and searching for explanations. This phenomenon is neatly encapsulated in the Expectancy Violation Theory (EVT). Essentially, EVT dives deep into how people respond when someone breaks the unwritten rules of communication, such as through body language, facial expressions, or other non-verbal cues. So, how exactly does this theory play out in our daily interactions? Let's dig in!

The Fundamentals of Expectancy Violation Theory

What Is Expectancy Violation Theory?

Expectancy Violation Theory was developed by Judee K. Burgoon, a renowned communication scholar. The theory posits that people hold certain expectations regarding how others should behave in a given context. These expectations are based on social norms, personal experiences, and cultural backgrounds. When someone deviates from these expectations, it can lead to various reactions—ranging from surprise and confusion to delight and admiration.

Key Components of EVT

• Expectancies: These are the anticipations or predictions of how people should behave in specific situations. They can be influenced by individual experiences, social norms, and cultural settings.
• Violation Valence: This refers to the positive or negative value we assign to the unexpected behavior. For instance, a friendly hug from a stranger might be seen as positive in some cultures but negative in others.
• Communicator Reward Valence: This assesses the overall positive or negative attributes of the person committing the violation. If someone we like breaks a social norm, we might be more forgiving than if someone we dislike does the same.

How EVT Impacts Communication

Breaking the Norms: When and Why It Matters

Imagine you're in a business meeting, and a colleague unexpectedly cracks a joke. This deviation from the formal tone might catch you off guard. According to EVT, your reaction will depend on several factors, such as the context of the meeting, your relationship with the colleague, and the perceived appropriateness of the joke.

Positive and Negative Violations

Not all expectancy violations are negative. Sometimes, breaking the norm can lead to positive outcomes. For example:

• Positive Violations: Unexpected compliments, surprises, or acts of kindness can enhance relationships and build trust.
• Negative Violations: Rude comments, inappropriate behavior, or breaches of personal space can harm relationships and create tension.

Real-Life Applications of EVT

1. In the Workplace: Understanding EVT can help managers and employees navigate workplace dynamics more effectively. For instance, knowing when to stick to formal communication and when to be more casual can improve team cohesion and productivity.
2. In Personal Relationships: EVT can shed light on why certain interactions feel uncomfortable and how to address them. It encourages individuals to consider the expectations of others and the impact of their behavior on relationships.
3. In Cross-Cultural Communication: Since expectations vary across cultures, EVT is crucial in understanding and respecting these differences. What’s considered polite in one culture might be seen as rude in another.

The Psychology Behind Expectancy Violations

Cognitive Dissonance and EVT

When someone’s behavior contradicts our expectations, it creates cognitive dissonance—a state of mental discomfort. EVT suggests that individuals will try to reduce this discomfort by rationalizing the unexpected behavior or adjusting their expectations. For example, if a usually punctual friend arrives late, we might rationalize that they must have had a good reason.

The Role of Perception

Our perception of the violator plays a significant role in how we interpret expectancy violations. If we perceive someone positively, we're more likely to view their unexpected behavior in a favorable light. Conversely, if our perception is negative, the same behavior might be judged harshly.

Enhancing Communication Skills with EVT

Becoming More Mindful Communicators

One of the key takeaways from EVT is the importance of mindfulness in communication. By being aware of our own and others’ expectations, we can navigate social interactions more effectively. Here are some tips:

• Observe and Adapt: Pay attention to the non-verbal cues and social norms of different settings. Adapt your behavior accordingly to meet or positively violate expectations.
• Seek Feedback: Don't hesitate to ask for feedback if you're unsure about how your behavior is being perceived. This can help you adjust and improve your communication skills.
• Be Flexible: Understand that expectations can vary widely between individuals and contexts. Flexibility in your approach can prevent misunderstandings and foster better relationships.

Leveraging EVT in Conflict Resolution

Expectancy violations often play a role in conflicts. Understanding EVT can help in resolving disputes by:

• Identifying the Violation: Recognize the specific expectation that was violated and address it directly.
• Communicating Clearly: Express your expectations and listen to the other person's perspective. Clear communication can prevent future violations.
• Finding Common Ground: Work towards finding a middle ground where both parties' expectations are respected.

Expectancy Violation Theory in the Digital Age

Social Media and EVT

In the realm of social media, Expectancy Violation Theory takes on new dimensions. Online interactions often involve different norms compared to face-to-face communication. Unexpected behavior on social media can go viral, attracting widespread attention. Here are some examples:

• Positive Violations: Acts of kindness or humor that deviate from the usual online discourse can garner positive attention and build a supportive community.
• Negative Violations: Offensive comments or inappropriate posts can lead to backlash and social media shaming.

Virtual Communication

With the rise of virtual communication, understanding EVT becomes even more critical. Video calls, emails, and instant messaging come with their own set of expectations. Here’s how EVT applies:

• Video Calls: Unexpected interruptions or background noise can violate the norms of a professional meeting. Being mindful of these expectations can enhance virtual interactions.
• Emails and Messages: The tone and content of written communication can also lead to expectancy violations. Clear and respectful communication can prevent misunderstandings.

Conclusion

Expectancy Violation Theory offers valuable insights into the dynamics of human communication. By understanding and applying EVT, we can become more effective communicators, build stronger relationships, and navigate social interactions with greater ease. Whether in personal relationships, the workplace, or the digital world, being mindful of expectations and how they shape our reactions is crucial. So, the next time someone surprises you with their behavior, take a moment to reflect on the expectancy violations at play and how you can respond in a way that fosters understanding and connection.