communication theory

Question 1

what communication theory did Howard Giles develop

Answer 1

Communication accomodation theory (CAT)

Question 2

what is the communication accomodation theory?

Answer 2

explains how people adjust their style of communication depending on who they are speaking to. These adjustments can involve language, tone, accent, speed of speech, body language, and even non-verbal behaviours

Question 3

what are the two components to CAT

Answer 3

convergence and divergence

Question 4

what is convergence

Answer 4

when someone modifies their communication style to be more similar to the person they are speaking with. This can involve matching accents, simplifying language, or adopting specific expressions to build rapport and mutual understanding

Question 5

what is divergence

Answer 5

when someone deliberately makes their communication style different from the other person’s. Rather than blending in, the speaker highlights their own identity, culture, or social group.

Question 6

advantage of CAT

Answer 6

recognises the dynamic nature of communication. It shows that people are not passive communicators but rather make conscious or unconscious choices to shape their interactions

Question 7

disadvantage of CAT

Answer 7

Over-accommodation (changing too much) may seem patronising or fake.

This can cause discomfort or conflict.

People interpret convergence differently across cultures.