Uncertainty Reduction Theory

• Uncertainty Reduction Theory


  A theory concerned with how people communicate to gain knowledge and reduce uncertainty
• Proponents


  • Charles 'Chuck' Berger (1975, International Communication Association)
  • Fritz Heider ("Beginnings of personal relationships are fraught with uncertainties")
  • Calabrese, Richard V. (Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park)
• Three stages of Uncertainty Reduction Theory

  1. Entry stage: Communication is mostly based on observing one's behavioral norms and values, exchange basic information

  2. Personal stage: The goal is to find mutual indicators that help to develop the relationship further, the interactants have had conversations various times

  3. Exit stage: Can be seen as an evaluation of the relationship phase, interactants will determine if the relationship is going to develop further or if it is going to end
• Axioms of Uncertainty Reduction Theory

  • Verbal Communication: As the amount of verbal communication between strangers increases, the level of uncertainty decreases, and, as a result verbal communication increases
  • Non-Verbal Warmth: As non-verbal affiliative expressiveness increases, uncertainty levels will decrease. Decreases in uncertainty level will cause increases in non-verbal affiliative expressiveness
  • Information Seeking: High levels of uncertainty cause increases in information-seeking behavior. As uncertainty levels decline, information-seeking behavior decreases
  • Self-Disclosure: High levels of uncertainty in a relationship cause decreases in the intimacy level of communication content. Low levels of uncertainty produce high levels of intimacy
  • Reciprocity: High levels of uncertainty produce high rates of reciprocity. Low levels of uncertainty produce low levels of reciprocity
  • Similarity: Similarities between persons reduce uncertainty while dissimilarities produce increases in uncertainty
  • Liking: Increases in uncertainty level produce decreases in liking; decreases in uncertainty produce increases in liking
  • Shared Networks: Shared communication networks reduce uncertainty, while lack of shared networks increases uncertainty
• Uncertainty Reduction Theory (URT) is a communication theory that focuses on reducing anxiety in social interactions. It explains how communication is used to gain knowledge, create understanding, and reduce uncertainty.