Expanding the conceptual and empirical boundaries of family communication patterns: The development and validation of an Expanded Conformity Orientation Scale |
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| Authors: | Haley Kranstuber Horstman Paul Schrodt Benjamin Warner Ascan Koerner Ryan Maliski Alexie Hays |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Communication, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA;2. Department of Communication Studies, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, USA;3. Department of Communication Studies, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA;4. Department of Communication, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, USA;5. Department of Communication Studies, Marietta College, Marietta, OH, USA |
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| Abstract: | Family communication patterns theory (FCPT) explores how family members communicate to create a shared social reality via conversation and conformity orientations. Recently, scholars have noted that the current conceptualization and operationalization of conformity orientation is unnecessarily narrow in scope by representing conformity as controlling and repressive, rather than as cultivating homogenous attitudes, beliefs, and values among family members. To address these concerns, we tested the factor structure of the most common measure in FCPT research, the Revised Family Communication Patterns scale (Study One). Based on theoretical and methodological concerns that emerged from Study One, we then created and validated a new scale in Study Two – the Expanded Conformity Orientation Scale (ECOS). Findings from Study Two demonstrated concurrent and discriminant validity. Implications for the use of the ECOS in future studies are discussed. |
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| Keywords: | Family communication patterns conversation orientation conformity orientation mental well-being relational health |
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