How expectations affect conversational assessment and memory formation

Abstract

Conversations are complex. During a conversation, individuals must assess what is said, how it is said, as well as whether expectations about the conversation were met. These components influence our interpersonal experiences and memory formation of those experiences. We discuss conversational expectations through the lens of five theoretical approaches: the interactive alignment model, the collaborative theory, communication accommodation theory, interaction adaptation theory, and expectancy violations theory. We then discuss how expectations affect assessments and memories. We propose a sociocognitive model that incorporates both cognitive and social components of conversation theories. The sociocognitive model integrates informational elements, interactional elements, and social information. The model makes predictions about what makes conversations feel like they were good conversations and what makes conversations memorable. It also helps explain misunderstandings in conversations.