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Uncertainty Reduction

Uncertainty Reduction Theory (URT), developed by Charles Berger and Richard Calabrese in 1975, explains how communication reduces uncertainties between strangers during initial interactions. The theory outlines the processes and assumptions involved in interpersonal communication, including the prediction of behavior, the significance of self-disclosure, and the stages of relationship development. URT emphasizes the importance of communication in managing uncertainty, highlighting the balance between proactive and retroactive techniques for information exchange.

Education◦
Introduction to Communication Theory Turner and West
  Uncertainty Reduction Theory (URT) is also known as Initial Interaction Theory.  Uncertainty Reduction Theory was originated by Charles Berger and Richard Calabrese in 1975.  Their goal was to explain how communication is used to reduce uncertainties between strangers engaging in their first conversation together. Origin
 Predictions Explanation Sub Processes
 Cognitive uncertainty Beliefs and attitudes Behavioral uncertainty Behavior based upon situation Self-Disclosure Two types of uncertainty in initial encounters
 Proactive uncertainty reduction Retroactive uncertainty reduction Two Processes
  Verbal output  Non Verbal warmth  Information seeking  Self-Disclosure  Reciprocity of disclosure  Similarity  Liking Uncertainty is related to 7 concepts
  People experience uncertainty in interpersonal settings.  Uncertainty is an aversive state, generating cognitive stress.  When strangers meet, their primary concern is to reduce uncertainty or to increase predictability.  Interpersonal communication is a developmental process that occurs through stages.  Interpersonal communication is the primary means of uncertainty reduction.  The quantity of info shared changes through time.  It is possible to predict behavior in a law like way. 7 assumptions
  Interpersonal communication is a developmental process that occurs through stages. Entry phase Personal phase Exit phase 4th Assumption
  Getting to know a person will cause more conversation  Decreases in uncertainty causes an increase in non verbal expressions.  High levels of uncertainty causes an increase in information-seeking behavior.  High levels of uncertainty causes a decrease in intimacy within a relationship  Similarities reduce uncertainties  Higher uncertainties produces a lower liking level Axioms of URT
  Uncertainty is negatively related to interaction with social networks.  There is an inverse, or negative, relationship between uncertainty and communication satisfaction. Additional Axioms of URT
  The first condition occurs when the other person has the potential to reward or punish.  The second condition occurs when the other person behaves contrary to expectations.  The last condition occurs when a person expects future interactions with another. Antecedent Conditions
 Passive Active Interactive Strategies
  Uncertainty in developed relationships may be different than it is in initial encounters.  There may be a tension between reducing and increasing uncertainty in developed relationships.  The excitement of uncertainty becomes desirable as people begin to feel certain about their relationships and their partners.  Relational uncertainty Relationships
  URT places communication in a central position because it has provoked a large amount of commentary and research.  It has made a very important contribution to the field of communication even though it has generated controversy and theoretical disputes. Conclusion