Uncertainty Reduction Theory By Charles Barger

Uncertainty Reduction Theory (URT) originates from theorist Charles Barger. This theory is objective with a socio-psychological tradition. URT suggests “that in order for relationships to be maintained, relational partners must manage their uncertainty by constantly updating their knowledge of themselves, their partners, and their relationships” (Aylor and Dainton, 2001, pg. 2). The main focus of Uncertainty Reduction Theory is how communication is used to reduce uncertainty during interactions. Uncertainty reduction occurs when you have increased knowledge of what kind of person your partner is, which then gives you an idea of how your interaction will turn out. This theory has three focuses which are as followed: axioms, eight key variables
For each axiom you will be given the truth of what happens when uncertainty and different concepts are linked. The first states that when verbal communication is used between partners, uncertainty decreases. The second states that when uncertainty decreases, non-verbal warmth increases. The third states that when uncertainty is high, information seeking behavior also is high. The fourth states that when uncertainty increases, low-self disclosure decreases. The fifth states that when uncertainty is high, rates of reciprocal disclosure are also high. The sixth states that when there is a similarity between people, the uncertainty level will be lower. The seventh states that when uncertainty increases, liking decreases. The eighth and final axiom states that when you share networks with someone, your uncertainty levels decrease. All of these axioms help in understanding how different ways of communication can increase or decrease
Relational uncertainty are “doubts about our own thoughts, the thoughts of the other person, or the future of the relationship” (Griffin, 2015, pg. 116). URT has four assumptions, the first being that people can experience uncertainty in any interpersonal setting. The second assumption is that uncertainty is an aversive state which generates cognitive stress. The third assumption is that when meeting a stranger, the main concern is to reduce the other person’s uncertainty while increasing their predictability. The last assumption is that the primary means of uncertainty reduction is through interpersonal communication. This theory has an issue with Theorem 17, which “predicts that the more you like people, the less you’ll seek information about them.” (Griffin, 2015, pg. 117). 12 years after having URT published, Berger admitted that Theorem 17 contained “some propositions of dubious validity” (Griffin, 2015, pg.17). Kelly Kellermann who participated in Berger’s research stated that “it seems more reasonable to suggest that persons will seek information about and from those they like rather than those they dislike” (Griffin, 2015, pg.