Personality Trait Approaches

Personality Trait Approaches

1. Communicator Style

   • Verbal/Nonverbal/Paraverbal language influences interpretation of content
   • Style profile: a combination of style variables

2. Rhetorical sensitivity

   • Noble selves: self schema that emphasizes consistency; say exactly what is on their mind
     • Rhetorical reflectors: present a new self based on situations; concerned with appropriateness
       • Rhetorical Sensitivities: does not try to be consistent or appropriate: realizes there is no single self
         • High self monitor: think before they speak

3. Communication Apprehension

   • Fear/anxiety of anticipated communication

4. Attachment Styles

   • Secured style: image of self and others are positive; comfortable with intimacy and autonomy
     • Fearful style: image of self and others are negative
       • Preoccupied style: low image of self, positive view of others
         • Dismissing style: positive self image, negative view of others (values autonomy, not intimacy)

5. Intimacy Motivation

   • High: spending time in dyads; self disclosure; eye contact