Expectancy Violations Theory: Social Space, Reactions, and Modern Applications

Ch 6

What does Expectancy Violations Theory (EVT) explain?

EVT explains how people have expectations about behavior in social situations and how violations of those expectations can lead to surprise, discomfort, or positive reactions.

What is proxemics in the context of EVT?

Proxemics refers to how people use physical space as a form of nonverbal communication, which varies based on context and relationships.

What are the four types of personal space distances in EVT?

1. Intimate Distance (0-10 inches) 2. Personal Distance (18 inches to 4 feet) 3. Social Distance (4-12 feet) 4. Public Distance (12-25 feet)

What is the threat threshold in EVT?

The threat threshold is the limit to our intimate space; if someone violates this space, it triggers a fear response.

What does arousal refer to in EVT?

Arousal refers to a heightened mental or emotional state that occurs when expectations are violated.

What factors influence expectancy in EVT?

Expectancy is influenced by context, relationship, and communicator characteristics.

What is violation valence in EVT?

Violation valence is the perception of whether a violation is seen as positive or negative by the person experiencing it.

What are positively valenced violations?

Positively valenced violations are those that are perceived as good or beneficial.

What are negatively valenced violations?

Negatively valenced violations are those that are perceived as bad or harmful.

What is communicator reward valence?

Communicator reward valence refers to how we evaluate the person committing the violation, based on their physical attributes, mental attributes, access to resources, and power dynamics.

What is Interaction Adaptation Theory?

Interaction Adaptation Theory is an extension of EVT that analyzes how people adapt their behavior when their expectations are violated.

What is an interaction position (IP) in EVT?

An interaction position (IP) is what a person first expects, influenced by their requirements (R), expectations (E), and desires (D).

How is actual behavior (A) related to interaction position (IP)?

Actual behavior (A) can match or differ from the interaction position (IP), influencing the perception of the interaction.

What research method was used to study EVT in romantic relationships?

Interviews with 51 participants were conducted to study expectations of cell phone use during time spent together.

What expectations did participants have regarding cell phone use during dates?

Participants expected undivided attention during dates and divided attention during informal hangouts.

Is Expectancy Violations Theory considered an objective or interpretive theory?

Expectancy Violations Theory is considered an objective theory.

What should you pay attention to over the next two days according to EVT takeaways?

Pay attention to how people may violate your expectations and observe your responses to those violations.

What should you do if a violation outcome is positive?

If a violation outcome is good, you should consider repeating that behavior.

What should you do if a violation outcome is negative?

If a violation outcome is bad, you should avoid repeating that behavior.