A framework for understanding equivocation

Abstract

Information processing theory was used to develop a general model of equivocation that takes into account the various forms of linguistic specificity beyond responsiveness to questions, as well as receivers' comprehensive processing of message content. The model posits causal effects of language specificity and message length on receivers' perceptions of linguistic specificity and their assessments of message clarity, position advocated, and personalization. The results of meta-analyses and causal models of conversation ratings show that message length decreased perceived linguistic specificity but increased message clarity and personalization, perceived specificity increased clarity and identification of position advocated, and clarity increased identification of position advocated and personalization. The immediacy of the channel of presentation enhanced the role of specificity in the model and inhibited the role of clarity in the model. The practical implications of these findings for the use of equivocation are discussed.