Uncertainty Reduction Theory

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Interactive strategies

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People engage in passive, active, or interactive strategies to reduce uncertainty with others.

According to Berger, if a person were to observe another in their natural environment, intentionally unnoticeable, to gain information on another, would be categorized as using a passive tactic for reducing uncertainties.[1] For example, watching someone in class, cafeteria, or any common area without attracting attention.

An active strategist would result to means of reducing uncertainties without any personal direct contact.[1] For example, if one were to ask a friend about a particular person, or ask the particular person's friend for some information without actually confronting the person directly.

An interactive strategist would directly confront the individual and engage in some form of dialogue to reduce the uncertainties between the two.[1]

  1. ^ a b c Berger, Charles R. "Inscrutable goals, uncertain plans, and the production of communicative action." Communication and social influence processes (1995): 1-28.