Two contrasting explanations of involvement violations: expectancy violations theory versus discrepancy arousal theory

The effects of violations of expectations on arousal, reciprocity, & compensation in the medical practitioner-patient relationship are considered, specifically, expectancy violations (EV) & discrepancy arousal (DA) predictions are contrasted. EV theory predicts that given a communication with high reward valence, high & very high involvement (including touch & close proximity) should be met with reciprocation. DA theory predicts that Ss should compensate the level of involvement with a reciprocal level of involvement regardless of valence or involvement. Undergraduates (N = 92) participated in a practice medical interview. Various levels of involvement were enacted by one male & one female confederate. Results contradicted both the DA & EV theories of ongoing interactions. It is suggested that both theories need modification if they are to successfully account for these results. 4 Tables, 4 Figures, 47 References. Adapted from the source document