Predicting Intrapersonal Communication Satisfaction on the Basis of Imagined Interactions in the Pacific Rim

Abstract

Intrapersonal communication satisfaction was regressed on a type of intrapersonal communication known as imagined interactions (IIs) in which people daydream about talking with others who are important in their lives. This study examined the functions of IIs impacting intrapersonal communication satisfaction and measures of cultural patterns in America, Japan, and Thailand. Additionally, cultural patterns were examined. Horizontal individualism is a cultural pattern in which the self is independent but is equal in status with others. Vertical individualism is a pattern characterized by an autonomous self but there are differences in authority, based on status, low equality, and high freedom. Horizontal collectivism is a pattern in which the self is seen as equal in status with others. Vertical collectivism is a pattern characterized by the self being connected with other group members and inequality is accepted. Results revealed that intrapersonal communication satisfaction was predicted by imagined interactions that serve a self-understanding, catharsis, and boldness function. Horizontal collectivism also predicted communication satisfaction for Thai participants. Results are discussed in terms of the importance and functions of conflict-linkage and rumination.

A version of this paper was presented as a Top Paper at the annual International Communication Association Convention, San Francisco, CA, May 2007.

Keywords:

• Imagined Interactions
• Individual/Collectivism
• Communication Satisfaction

Notes

A version of this paper was presented as a Top Paper at the annual International Communication Association Convention, San Francisco, CA, May 2007.