Explanation and Context Review Communication

University of Phoenix Material Communication Theories and Context Review Communication can be understood by examining the context in which communication takes place and by reviewing some of the theories that govern how communication works within each context. Part A – Communication Contexts Directions: Define each communication context. A. Intrapersonal: Face-to-face communication between people B. Interpersonal: Communication with oneself C. Group: Communication with a group of people D. Organizational: Communication within and among large, extended environments E. Public: Communication to a large group of listeners F.
Mass: Communication to a very large audience through mediated forms G. Intercultural: Communication between and among members of different cultural backgrounds Part B – Communication Contexts and Their Related Theories Directions: Place the appropriate letter of each context above next to its related theory. Then write a brief explanation of each theory. Theories 1. _A__ Cognitive Dissonance – Explains the tendency for individuals to seek consistency among their cognitions, such as beliefs and opinions. When there is an inconsistency between attitudes or behaviors (dissonance), something must change to eliminate the dissonance.
In the case of a discrepancy between attitudes and behavior, it is most likely that the attitude will change to accommodate the behavior. 2. _G___ Face-Negotiation Theory – Explains how different cultures manage conflict and communication. The theory explains that the root of conflict is based on identity management on individual and cultural levels. 3. __B__ Groupthink – Explains how individuals may withhold their opposing opinions to promote cohesiveness. Individuals may also withhold their opposing opinions because they fear rejection by the group. 4. _B__ Communication Privacy Management – Explains the process that people use to manage the relationship between concealing and revealing private information 5. __D__ Organizational Information Theory – Explains how organizations make sense of the information that is essential for their existence 6. __F__ Spiral of Silence – Explains why people tend to remain silent when they think their views are in the minority 7. __E__ Rhetoric/Dramatism/Narrative Paradigm – Explains that people are essentially storytellers who make decisions on the basis of good reasons. History, biography, culture, and character determine what we consider good reasons.