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...