Elaborating the communication theory of identity: Identity gaps and communication outcomes |
| |
Authors: | Eura Jung Michael L Hecht |
| |
Institution: | 1. Assistant Professor in the Department of Speech Communication , University of Southern Mississippi , Hattiesburg, MS, 39406;2. Professor in the Department of Communication Arts and Sciences , Pennsylvania State University , University Park, PA, 16802 |
| |
Abstract: | The Communication Theory of Identity identifies four frames of identity and their interpenetration. This article articulates identity gaps as a way to study interpenetration and selected two of the gaps, between personal and relational frames and between personal and enacted identities, for the study. A survey was administered and, as hypothesized, significant negative correlations were observed between the identity gaps and three communication outcomes. Possible causal directions were suggested by post hoc analyses. The results support the theory and suggest the utility of identity gaps as a means for understanding the role of identity in social relationships. |
| |
Keywords: | communication theory of identity identity gaps communication outcomes |
|
|