A Critique on Berger’s Uncertainty Reduction Theory Essay

IntroductionWhen people introductory worthy and interact with each otherwise, they be indefinite with their air and with what to say. When this happens, they have the tendency, of course, to depress that dubiousness. This is what the un authorizedty diminution guess of communication talks virtually. This scheme is very relevant in peoples everyday backing and experiences. However, although it is widely used, some be static uncertain with this theory. This paper aims to give the reader an analysis of the perplexity reduction theory.Background on irresolution decline scheme irresolution reduction theory or URT was attempted off by Charles Berger in 1975. During the start of his c arr, a number of his graduate students dis sayed that communication was similarly diverse and un sure. That means that it is impossible to be dealt scientifically. Because of this, Berger was challenged to become and present some proofs that would support his theory. He believed that m ankind communication can be studied methodically and precisely. The dubiousness reduction theory was created.In the start of personal relationships, last level of disbelief is around the other person is present. During the preliminary stages of interaction among curiouss, distrust drop-off Theory looks for to direct communication way. Then, the major(ip) goal or use of goods and services of this theory is to fall the uncertainty. Along with this, it also aims to profit the predictability. Sh ard characteristics reach at some point in the initial dialogue amongst strangers. These include recurrent questions and answers during the first few minutes.There is also an exchange of reading with the absence of opinion and usually their conversation is focus on topics like hometown and occupation. In order to downplay uncertainty, URT ponders on how people use communication in obtaining knowledge and discernment. At the first meeting of strangers, their behaviors man communic ating are influenced by a amaze of communication rules and norms. These norms are both explicit and implicit. Furthermore, these rules and norms put up expectations and precedents for early interactions which eventually, cause predictability in the news and a diminution in uncertainty. (Moncrieff, 2001)The Uncertainty decrease Theory proposes that people, particularly strangers, have a compulsion to reduce uncertainty or hesitation astir(predicate) others. This is done by gaining training from each other. This information can be used to predict the behavior of the other. The specific importance of the reduction of uncertainty is in relational development. Successful decrease of uncertainty supports or gives way for positive future tense interactions.There are two types of uncertainty, behavioral and cognitive. Behavioral uncertainty concerns the anticipation or calculation of behavior in certain circumstances. For example, one can predict that interaction testament go well b ecause of positive behaviors like smiling. On the other hand, cognitive uncertainty is associated with mind-set or beliefs and attitudes people embrace and is reduced through the gaining of information. (Moncrieff, 2001)The septet Axioms of Uncertainty decrement TheoryBerger suggests a serial of axioms to further discuss the relation between uncertainty and seven vital variables. This is the axiomatic theory, certainty nigh uncertainty.Axiom 1 says that as the amount of literal communication increases, there is a decrease in the uncertainty level of the two strangers that has just met. As a result, the decrease in their uncertainty increases the oral communication.Axiom 2 is known as the sign-language(a) warmth. Decline in uncertainty level will cause proliferation in sign-language(a) affiliative expressiveness. It is because as nonverbal affiliative expressiveness rises, uncertainty levels will lessen.Axiom 3 is almost information seeking. Because of the exalted levels of uncertainty, increases in information-seeking behavior occur. When the uncertainty level drops off, information-seeking also decreases.Axiom 4 is self-disclosure. The reduction in the intimacy level of communication nitty-gritty is usually caused by relationships senior senior high level of uncertainty. When there is a decrease in the levels of uncertainty, high levels of intimacy are bring outd.Axiom 5 is known as reciprocity. Like Axiom 3, high rates of uncertainty also yield high levels of reciprocity. When there is confused level of uncertainty, there is low level of reciprocity.Axiom 6 is about similarity. twin between persons decreases uncertainty. Much difference between persons produce high rate of uncertainty.Last but non the least, Axiom 7 tells about liking. When there is high uncertainty level, a person tends to dislike the other person. Hence, when there is a decrease in uncertainty, increase in liking is produced. (McGlish, 2006)Critique on the Uncertainty ste p-down TheoryNatalie Wright critiques Charles Bergers Uncertainty Reduction Theory in terms of scientific and humainstic. She believes that Berger uses scientific method in dealing with human-centered determine to prove and certify his theory. In the Uncertainty Reduction Theory, Wright said that Berger addresses the humanistic smellings of understanding how people feel in unfamiliar relationships and the appeal we have to reduce those anxieties by learning more about others. However, still according to her, URT is scientific because Berger makes used of all basketball team elements of the scientific model to substantiate and defend his theory. Wright presents a table that would further explain the distinction between scientific and humanistic models (Wright, 2000)ScientificHumanistic account statement of dataunderstanding of peopleprediction of futureclarification of valuesrelative simplicityesthetic appealtestable hypothesiscommunity of agreement possible utilityreform of soci etyAs a researcher, I support the claim of Natalie Wright. Bergers theory is scientific because he has clear definition and rendering of his theory. He even provides theorys purpose and seven axioms that explain how to reduce uncertainty.It is true that it is cored to humanistic ideas. However, its scientific strategies make this theory useful and hard-nosed in everyday living. I could say that his axioms are effective. For example, when someone observes two persons who have just met and interact for the first time follow Bergers patterns of uncertainty reduction, that someone may prove that Bergers axioms are very accurate. Furthermore, I can say that these axioms are true based on my personal relationships. I also experience meeting a stranger and has applied the uncertainty reduction theory in my own ways.In general, Uncertainty Reduction Theory focuses on how to reduce uncertainty by development human communication in gaining knowledge about the other person. Hence, it results in creating a more predictable and directed relationship. Charles Berger, who designed the theory, comes up with seven axioms. These axioms are accurate and practical enough to be understood and applied by anyone.BIBLIOGRAPHYMcGlish, G. (2006). A First olfactory property at Communication Theory Retrieved November 21, 2006, from http//www.afirstlook.com/manual5/ed5man10.pdf.Moncrieff, K. (2001). Uncertainty Reduction Theory. Retrieved November 21, 2006, from http//www.colostate.edu/Depts/Speech/rccs/theory52.htmWright, N. (2000). A Critique of Bergers Uncertainty Reduction Theory Retrieved November 21, 2006, from http//oak.cats.ohiou.edu/nw583098/unc.htm