Communication Accommodation Theory Often People With Differe

Communication Accommodation Theoryoften People With Different Speaking

Communication Accommodation Theory often explores how individuals with differing speaking styles communicate, even within the same nation. Basil Bernstein (1966) emphasized the influence of social situations—such as job interviews versus casual parties—and social relationships—like peers versus authority figures—on the forms of speech employed in various contexts. Bernstein proposed that cultures contain different types of codes: a restricted code, used among those who know each other well, and an elaborated code, which details meaning explicitly to facilitate understanding by outsiders.

The restricted code often involves jargon or argot. Jargon is a specialized vocabulary used within a profession or group (e.g., rugby players or miners), while argot refers to language utilized by specific underclass groups (e.g., prisoners or prostitutes) to differentiate themselves from dominant cultures. As relationships deepen, even close friends may develop linguistic shorthand, speaking in references or terms unfamiliar to outsiders. Conversely, an elaborated code spells out meanings clearly, making communication accessible beyond immediate social circles. Switching between these codes is known as code-switching.

Effective communicators should adapt to their context by employing restricted codes when appropriate, but also be capable of switching to elaborated codes to include outsiders or adjust to different audiences. This ability to switch codes is vital in various settings—at work, among friends, or in multicultural interactions. For example, at work, one might use industry jargon to connect with colleagues but switch to more formal language when communicating with clients or external stakeholders.

Code-switching can be advantageous; it enables individuals to establish rapport, demonstrate cultural competence, or show respect for different social norms. However, it can also be ineffective if overused or misapplied—leading to confusion, perceived insincerity, or exclusion. For instance, excessive code-switching might signal inauthenticity or cause misunderstandings if the audience is unfamiliar with the shifts.

Understanding and utilizing code-switching thoughtfully is particularly relevant in multicultural environments, such as with international students. Recognizing their linguistic backgrounds and adapting communication accordingly can foster inclusion and comfort. For example, being mindful of language complexity, avoiding idiomatic expressions unfamiliar to non-native speakers, and providing clarifications can enhance mutual understanding and promote acceptance.

Howard Giles and colleagues (Giles & Noels, 2002; Gallois et al., 2005) extended this understanding into the Communication Accommodation Theory. This theory predicts how people modify their communication based on situational factors, social identities, and relationships, as well as the outcomes of such adjustments. The theory outlines three primary behaviors: convergence, maintenance, and divergence.

Convergence involves adapting one's speech and behavior to become more similar to the interlocutor, fostering social bonds and reducing social differences. Maintenance signifies keeping one's distinctive communication style, which can assert identity or dominance. Divergence accentuates differences, often used to assert status or differentiate oneself from others.

An illustrative example from the TV series Lost highlights Jin Kwon's communication adjustments. Jin, a Korean immigrant, demonstrates convergence when he employs respectful, deferential speech with his boss, and divergence when he asserts independence or cultural identity through non-verbal cues or speech patterns. These shifts depend on factors like social hierarchy, goals of communication (such as expressing friendliness or dominance), and contextual cues.

Jin's ability to adjust his nonverbal behaviors—such as posture, distance, and touch—as well as verbal choices—tone, speech rate, lexical complexity—reflects the dynamic nature of communication accommodation. The degree and type of adjustment are influenced by the power differential between speakers, the situational context, the participants' relationship, and individual communication skills. For example, when aiming to show respect in a formal setting, Jin might adopt a more indirect and polite style, while in informal contexts, he might speak more directly and expressively.

This concept underscores the importance of adaptive communication in multicultural and international contexts. Recognizing when to converge or diverge based on social cues can facilitate mutual understanding, reduce conflict, and promote social cohesion. For instance, when interacting with international students, adjusting language complexity, being sensitive to cultural norms regarding eye contact, gestures, and speech patterns can significantly improve inclusivity and reduce misunderstandings.

In conclusion, Communication Accommodation Theory provides valuable insights into the fluidity of human interaction. By understanding the use of different codes and the strategic process of code-switching, individuals can navigate complex social landscapes more effectively. Whether in professional environments, personal relationships, or multicultural settings, the conscious application of convergence, maintenance, or divergence enhances communication, fosters respect, and promotes social harmony.

References

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• Gallois, C., Giles, H., & Coupland, J. (2005). Language and social psychology. In W. B. Gudykunst (Ed.), Theorizing about intercultural communication (pp. 221–246). Sage.
• Giles, H., & Noels, K. (2002). Communication Accommodation Theory. In M. L. Knapp & J. A. Daly (Eds.), The SAGE Handbook of Interpersonal Communication (pp. 293–310). Sage.
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