Interaction Adaptation Theory of Interpersonal Communication

INTERACTION ADAPTATION

THEORY OF INTERPERSONAL

COMMUNICATION

Anum Tanvir, Ayesha Aftab, Iqra Rasool

DEFINITION

According to Burgoon, Stern and Dillman, IAT takes into account the complexities of interpersonal interactions in by considering people’s needs, expectations, desires and goals as precursors of their degree and form of adaptation. Interaction Adaptation Theory is really a communication theory made of multiple theories. It's a theory that examines the sender and receiver process and patterns.

BASICS OF INTERACTION

People enter in any interaction with certain (R)equirments, (E)xpecations, and (D)esires.

They make up IPs related to a relationship: how an interaction will work.

The basic expression is expressed as IP= R+E+D

Converging, diverging and mirroring reflect the non-verbal aspects of communication that reflect the level of bond between two people.

It is mostly seen in dyadic pattern of interaction.

DYADIC INTERACTIONS

Our initial behavior in the interaction consists of combination of verbal and non verbal behaviors that reflect our interaction position, environmental factors, and skill level. However, in most interactions, our behavior will change- and so will that of your partner- as you experience mutual influence. Mutual influence can be considerable and in most situations can have a far greater effect than any preplanning you have done.

CONCEPT OF ‘RED’

Requirements mean what a person believes is necessary at a given point in interaction. R is most significantly driven by biological needs.

Expectations refer to what is anticipated in an interaction. It can be based on social norms and perceptions, generic communication functions, past experiences and behavioral knowledge

Desire is one’s personal goals and preferences for the interaction. These may be based on temperament but also get influenced by culture and norms

INTERACTION POSITION

‘Interaction Position’ (IP) as defined by Burgoon, Allspech and Miczo, is a net assessment of behavioral patterns that are needed, anticipated and preferred in an interaction.

IP is compared to partner’s actual behavior. If partner A is different than IP, the interaction is going to be more or less positive.

RESPONSES

If partner A is different from IP and is positively valanced, people tend to like, imitate and collaborate with a person. It is called reciprocity.

If partner A is different and more negatively valenced, people tend to stay same, maintain same behavior and exist the resistance to partner’s behavior. It is called compensation.

The positivity of a partner is subjective and varies in contexts.

APPLICATIONS