Mapping Expectancy Violations: Self-reflection and Planning for Better Communication

Abstract

Courses

Intercultural Communication, Study Abroad, Interpersonal Communication, Organizational Communication, Communication Theory

Objectives

(1) To demonstrate an understanding of expectancy violations theory; (2) to apply theory concepts to exploring personal expectations and their impact on communication and outcomes; and (3) to utilize the perspective gained to plan for successful communication.

Acknowledgments

The author would like to acknowledge her students for their explicit help in refining this activity and for sharing their thoughts so candidly.

Notes

[1] Active discussion has been based on reading questions provided with the assignment; a group quiz that requires students to explain the theory in writing, on the board, and as a class; or a media clip from which the students identify exemplars of the concepts in the theory.