Speech Accommodation Theory, also known as Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT), was developed by Howard Giles in the 1970s. This theory focuses on how individuals adjust their speech patterns to either converge or diverge from their interlocutors in order to facilitate effective communication and maintain social relationships. The theory is based on the idea that people adapt their speech patterns to match or contrast with their conversation partners in order to achieve various communicative goals.
CAT is rooted in sociolinguistics and takes into consideration the social and psychological factors that influence language use. It recognizes that speech is not only a means of conveying information, but also a tool for social interaction and identity negotiation. In other words, people use speech accommodation as a way to establish their connection with others and express their social identity.
There are two basic forms of accommodation outlined by Speech Accommodation Theory: convergence and divergence. Convergence refers to the process of adjusting one's speech to match the communication partner in order to emphasize similarity and build rapport. This can involve adopting similar accents, vocabulary, or speech rate. On the other hand, divergence is the opposite process where individuals deliberately accentuate their differences from the communication partner. This can be done through the use of unique vocabulary, distinct accents, or speech patterns.
In my linguistic environment, both convergence and divergence are applicable. As an international student studying in a multicultural setting, I often find myself engaging with individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds. In order to foster effective communication and create a sense of connection, I often converge my speech by adapting to the accents, vocabulary, and speech patterns of my conversation partners. This helps establish rapport and makes the conversation more comfortable for both parties. However, there are instances where I consciously choose to diverge from my communication partners' speech patterns, especially if I want to assert my own cultural or linguistic identity.
Two social factors that can facilitate or hinder accommodation are social norms and power dynamics. Social norms play a significant role in shaping the way people accommodate their speech. For example, in a formal setting such as a job interview or a business meeting, individuals may feel compelled to converge their speech in order to adhere to professional norms and create a sense of professionalism. Conversely, power dynamics can also impact accommodation. When individuals perceive a power imbalance between themselves and their conversation partners, they may choose to diverge their speech in order to assert their authority or preserve their individuality.
In conclusion, Speech Accommodation Theory provides a framework for understanding how individuals adjust their speech patterns to either converge or diverge from their communication partners. Convergence and divergence are two basic forms of accommodation that are applicable in various linguistic environments. Social factors such as social norms and power dynamics can either facilitate or hinder accommodation. By understanding these factors, individuals can navigate their linguistic environments more effectively and create meaningful connections through speech accommodation.
. Write a description of Speech Accommodation Theory addressing the following:
-Definition and background or foundations of the theory
-Two basic forms of accommodation: convergence and divergence
-discuss how they are applicable to your linguistic environment
-Two social factors which either facilitate or hinder accommodation
Important reminders
• This should be a four pages long essay excluding the reference page.
• Provide at least 6 scholarly references.
1 answer