Electronic Propinquity Theory and Communication Studies

A set of flashcards covering key concepts from electronic propinquity theory and communication studies, designed to aid in exam preparation.

Propinquity

Psychological closeness or sense of 'nearness' in communication via media.

Factors Increasing Propinquity

Higher bandwidth, greater mutual directionality (interactivity), better communication skills.

Factors Decreasing Propinquity

High information complexity, restrictive communication rules, more perceived channel choices.

Effect of Choice on Propinquity

Fewer choices lead to higher propinquity; more choices lead to lower propinquity.

Propinquity without Medium Choice

No differences between media—people adapt and achieve similar closeness.

Key Implication of Propinquity Theory

People do well with whatever medium they are 'stuck' with.

Manipulations in Korzenny & Bauer (1981)

Bandwidth, rules, and task were manipulated in their study.

Measured Outcomes in the Study Korzenny & Bauer

Propinquity and satisfaction were the outcomes measured.

Why the Original Theory was Falsified (propinquity)

General hypotheses failed in the initial empirical test.

Later Replications on Choice

Choice confounded results—when controlled, theory held more strongly.

Affiliative Cues

Behaviors that signal bonding (e.g., smiling, nodding, leaning in, gestures, laughter).

Digital Affiliative Cues in IM

Emojis, 'LOL,' repeated letters (e.g., 'heyyy'), punctuation, capitalization.

Bonding Measurement in Study (IM)

Self-reported feelings of connection were used to measure bonding.

Communication Conditions Compared (affiliative cues + bonding study)

Face-to-face, video chat, audio-only, and instant messaging were compared.

Hypothesis 1 (affiliative cues + bonding study)

Emotional connection decreases as available cues decrease.

Hypothesis 2 (affiliative cues + bonding study)

All media still produce some level of bonding and affiliative cues.

Hypothesis 3 (affiliative cues + bonding study)

More experienced users show more bonding and affiliative cues.

Hypothesis 4 (affiliative cues + bonding study)

More use of digital affiliative cues leads to greater reported bonding.

Media Richness

The ability of a medium to convey information and reduce ambiguity.

Components of Media Richness

Multiple cues, immediacy of feedback, natural language, personalization.

Social Presence

The sense that another person is 'real' and present in communication.

Prediction of Theories on Cues

More cues lead to more warmth, connection, and effectiveness.

Hyperpersonal Model

CMC can exceed face-to-face intimacy due to unique processes.

Hyperpersonal Sender Processes

Selective self-presentation and careful message crafting.

Hyperpersonal Receiver Processes

Idealization and exaggerated impressions characterized receiver processes.

Hyperpersonal Channel Processes

Ability to edit, control timing, and optimize messages defines channel processes.

Feedback Loop in Hyperpersonal Communication

Sender → message → receiver → feedback → intensified perceptions.

Behavioral Confirmation

Expectations influence how we treat others, shaping their responses.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

When expectations cause behaviors that make those expectations come true.

SMCR Loop in CMC

Sender–Message–Channel–Receiver cycle that intensifies impressions.

Core Idea of SIDE Model

When individual cues are absent, people rely on group identity.

Deindividuation

Loss of self-awareness and individuality in groups or anonymity.

Effects of Salient Group Identity

Increased conformity, ingroup favoritism, and social attraction occur.

Effects of Salient Individual Identity

Less group-based attraction; possibly neutral or negative effects.

Core Assumption of SIP

People build relationships in any medium using available cues.

Difference between CMC and FtF in SIP

CMC is slower but can reach the same relational depth over time.

Relationship Development Limitations in CMC

If time is limited, relationship development is reduced.

Types of Verbal Content

Instrumental, affective, relational are the three types.

Language Style Features

Formality, complexity, ambiguity, intensity, immediacy are examples.

Core Idea of CFO Theories

Lack of nonverbal cues reduces communication effectiveness.

Functions Reduced without Nonverbal Cues

Emotional expression, relationship management, impression formation.

Key Critique of Epley & Kruger Study

It ignored how people adapt to CMC constraints.

Evaluating Research

Always examine methods and procedures—not just conclusions.