Expectancy Violation Theory?!?! Trust me, it sounds a lot scarier than it really is!
Expectancy Violation Theory is a very intriguing theory about human interaction. In short, the theory declares that when people act different than our preconceived ideas, of how one should act in a certain situation, then they are violating our expectations.
And it is a lot more common than you think.....
People create these preconceived notions by enculturation and seeing repetition of actions repeated in their relationships and everyday activities. For example, everyday life helps us create these norms. As in, these norms are established because of observations made in everyday life. Like, watching how someone eats a turkey sandwich, or having interaction with strangers. These observations become preconvied notions and an example of our reality. We have developed norms through observation in everyday and from our own experiences in conversation.
Now do you see why it is so common?
Thus, Expectancy Violation Theory is simply the incident in which one acts, differently than is normal in that certain situation. This could occur in simple interactions. For example, in this video two guys are going around giving compliments, however, the compliments are unexpected and strange. thus, the people receiving the compliments are taken aback and have to adjust their reactions. This video, is funny and is a great example of Expectancy Violation Theory because two guys are doing a "normal" action, of complimenting a person. Furthermore, their comparisons and the things they are complementing the random citizen on are odd. Thus, those receiving the interesting compliments adjust their reactions as they have to find a simple, polite gesture for "overcoming the unexpected!" Thus, the two guys are going against preconceived norms, and altering a reality that was created through simple observations. Furthermore, the men and woman receiving the compliments were not accustomed to this kind of interaction and had to take a minute to adjust to the violation of their norm.
Expectancy Violation Theory is more than funny compliments and adjustment of communication style. Expectancy Violation Theory could also have a hugely positive affect on someone. Sometimes when one does things, unexpected, a chain reaction could occur (or just a change in mood). For example, if a cashier is usually mean, and one day is super nice, their actions is an example of Expectancy Violation Theory. ( one that is greatly appreciated )
Cool! Expectancy Violation Theory doesn't always have to be awkward!!
In the movie "Pay it Forward", a young boy continues to go against the norm. For example, he invites homeless men into his home. Then those men return the favor to three unexpected people. These gestures occur in situations in which a likely outcome would not be as generous. However, this is a great movie that exemplifies Expectancy Violation Theory in a positive light. The movie proves that when one is able to step out of the box, and simply act with kindness in an otherwise normally bleak situation, then a positive affect could be had. Sometimes acting differently that our created "reality" could be positive!
Enjoy!
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