Communication Accommodation Theory examines the consequences and underlying motivations of two speakers with different types of communication styles. The theory argues that during their communication, the two speakers try to adjust or highlight their way of speaking. For example, if you have a Southern accent and you’re speaking to someone who speaks fast, you’d try to speed up the way you talk to accommodate the other person. You are practicing the convergence part of communication accommodation because you’re seeking approval. If you use divergence, however, you don’t adjust your speech, but highlight your Southern accent.
The mass communication theory Groupthink studies how a group of individuals who think alike fail to consider any alternatives that don’t fit with their beliefs. Instead, the group prematurely makes decisions that have lasting consequences. For example, a group that practices hate speech resists other people’s diverse ideas because they aren’t similar to their own.
Uncertainty Reduction Theory involves the communication and behavior between two strangers. During strangers’ first encounter, each individual tries to reduce the level of uncertainty. When you meet an individual for the first time, you’re not sure how to behave or how the other person normally behaves. Also, you’re uncertain what the other person thinks of you. Thus, you’re motivated to use communication to find common interest. For instance, you may joke with the person or ask questions to find common interests.
Mass Communication theories involve numerous hypotheses on how people communicate and interact. Cognitive Dissonance Theory explains that people typically don’t want to hear opposing viewpoints. Thus, you’re are highly motivated to avoid any communication — whether news broadcast or other people – with different viewpoints, but seek reassurance after making your decision. Rhetoric Theory is based on persuasion. Social Exchange Theory argues that your major force in personal relationships involve your self-interests. Spiral of Silence Theory examines the power of media and its lasting effect on public opinion. Uses and Gratifications Theory entails why people use different forms of media such as social media or radio broadcast to communicate.