The Effects of Self-Construal and Perceived Control on Argumentativeness and Communication Apprehension

Abstract

This study investigates the relationships between self-construal, perceived control in communication interaction, and communication predispositions (e.g., argumentativeness and communication apprehension [CA]). The results indicate that the independent self-construal constitutes a significant predictor of perceived internal control in interaction, whereas the interdependent self-construal constitutes a significant predictor of perceived external (chance and powerful others) control in interaction. Moreover, the findings of this research indicate that perceived internal control constitutes a significant predictor of argumentativeness, whereas perceived external control is a significant predictor of CA. Contrary to expectations, the interdependent self-construal also constitutes a predictor of perceived internal control, which in turn constitutes a significant predictor of CA.

Keywords:

• Independent Self
• Interdependent Self
• Self-Construal
• Perceived Control
• Locus of Control in Interaction
• Argumentativeness
• Communication Apprehension