When Online Meets Offline: An Expectancy Violations Theory Perspective on Modality Switching

Abstract

The present study examines the occurrence and timing of modality switching (MS) from the perspective of expectancy violations theory. The results indicate that, relative to continuing to interact through computer-mediated communication, participants rated the social information (partner behavior and physical appearance/attractiveness) acquired by MS as an expectancy violation, although their evaluations varied as a function of the timing of the switch. Participants evaluated the social information more positively and uncertainty-reducing following short-term online associations but more negatively and uncertainty-provoking following long-term ones compared to remaining online. Moreover, social information acquired through MS, irrespective of the timing, was rated as more relationally important. Implications and limitations of the results as well as directions for future research are discussed.

The Presence of Cell Phones in Romantic Partner Face-to-Face Interactions: An Expectancy Violation Theory Approach

“…Ramirez and Wang (2008) argued that expectations in established relationships often stem from idiosyncrasies of particular partners. Analysis of transcripts revealed that in contexts in which there are expectations for undivided attention, such as on formal dates or during intimate time, expectations for what is appropriate cell phone usage differed from more informal situations, notably when hanging out.…”

“…They found that on first dates, men and women equally expect intimate interactions, characterized by verbal and nonverbal sharing (Mongeau & Carey, 1996). As relationships develop, expectancies become more specific to the communicators involved (Ramirez & Wang, 2008). As relationships develop, expectancies become more specific to the communicators involved (Ramirez & Wang, 2008).…”

The Influence of Peer Reviews on Source Credibility and Purchase Intention

“…Information processing theory maintains that people process all stimuli and messages by following a predictable process in assessing source credibility with all available information influencing perceptions, which in turn influences the way information is used [13,30,31], as well as the effectiveness of persuasive messages [14,15,22,32]. Visual information in an online setting can vary across interfaces and platforms and includes usernames, icons, images, or avatars.…”

Schmoozing and Smiting: Trust, Social Institutions, and Communication Patterns in an MMOG

“…Increasing levels of trust in social interactions can lead to the use of additional media. For example, research has shown that people online often first meet in a public area, such as bulletin board or general chatting room, then move to a more private modality, such as private chat room or e‐mail messaging, and then sometimes graduate to the telephone or a face‐to‐face meeting (McKenna, Green, & Gleason, 2002; Ramirez & Wang, 2008; Whitty & Gavin, 2001).…”