Uncertainty Reduction Theory

Paper Summary:

This paper explores how Berger's Uncertainty Reduction theory is a useful basis for understanding the interaction between two people, especially when they first meet. It is scientific in approach, and therefore like all theories, has some major weaknesses. However, these shortcomings are not enough to make one completely dismiss the theory. The writer believes the theory is a solid basis upon which other theorists can build superior communication theories.

From the Paper:

"The Uncertainty Reduction Theory, by Charles Berger, is a scientific attempt to explain the interaction between two people, primarily those meeting for the first time. According to Berger, the main goal of each participant in conversation is to predict the reaction of the other person and to reduce the amount of uncertainty that is inherent in a first encounter. Em Griffin, the author of A First Look at Communication, says that Berger "believes it's natural to have doubts about our ability to predict the outcome of initial encounters" "the beginnings of relationships are fraught with uncertainties" (136). Due to this intriguing nature, Berger aims to discover and justify the links behind the interactional process in a scientific framework meanwhile proving that "uncertainty is central to all social interaction" (Griffin 142)."

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