Idiomatic Communication in the Stages of Coming Together and Falling Apart

Abstract

Idiomatic communication is a strategic and unique form of communication that is indicative of a close relationship. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between idiomatic communication with solidarity and satisfaction to validate Social Penetration Theory using Knapp's stages of escalation and de-escalation. The results of the study (N = 275) found that couples in de-escalation stages report less idioms, and use idioms with less frequency, than couples in the escalation stages. Couples in de-escalating stages use confrontation, nickname, and teasing insult idioms with more negative effects than escalating couples. Finally, the use of idiomatic communication is significantly related to solidarity and relational satisfaction.

Keywords:

• Idiomatic Communication
• Relational Satisfaction
• Relational Stages
• Social Penetration Theory
• Solidarity

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Katie Neary Dunleavy

Katie Neary Dunleavy (PhD, West Virginia University, 2007) is an assistant professor in the Communication Department at La Salle University, Philadelphia.

Melanie Booth-Butterfield

Melanie Booth-Butterfield (PhD, University of Missouri, 1985) is a professor in the Department of Communication Studies at West Virginia University, Morgantown.