Theories of Communication

Description: This quiz aims to evaluate your understanding of various theories of communication. The questions cover different perspectives, models, and concepts related to communication processes. Answer each question to the best of your knowledge.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: communication theories communication models communication processes communication perspectives
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Which theory emphasizes the importance of context and shared meaning in communication?

  1. Symbolic Interactionism

  2. Functionalism

  3. Behaviorism

  4. Cognitive Theory


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Symbolic Interactionism highlights the role of symbols and shared meanings in shaping communication and social interactions.

The Shannon-Weaver Model of Communication is a mathematical model that describes the process of communication as a series of:

  1. Source, Message, Channel, Receiver

  2. Sender, Message, Medium, Receiver

  3. Encoder, Message, Channel, Decoder

  4. Transmitter, Signal, Medium, Receiver


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Shannon-Weaver Model is a fundamental model in communication theory that conceptualizes communication as a linear process with distinct components.

According to the Agenda-Setting Theory, the media can influence public opinion by:

  1. Controlling the flow of information

  2. Framing issues and topics

  3. Censoring certain viewpoints

  4. Promoting specific political ideologies


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Agenda-Setting Theory suggests that the media's selection and emphasis on certain issues shape public perception and priorities.

The concept of 'double bind' is associated with which communication theory?

  1. Transactional Communication Theory

  2. Social Penetration Theory

  3. Uncertainty Reduction Theory

  4. Double Bind Theory


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Double Bind Theory explores paradoxical and conflicting communication patterns that can lead to psychological distress.

The 'Uses and Gratifications' approach in communication studies focuses on:

  1. The effects of media on audiences

  2. The motivations and needs that drive media consumption

  3. The content analysis of media messages

  4. The economic and political factors shaping media industries


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The 'Uses and Gratifications' approach examines why and how individuals actively seek out and use media to satisfy their needs and goals.

Which communication theory emphasizes the role of power and control in shaping communication processes?

  1. Critical Theory

  2. Functionalism

  3. Behaviorism

  4. Cognitive Theory


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Critical Theory analyzes communication as a means of maintaining or challenging power structures and social inequalities.

The concept of 'gatekeeping' in communication refers to:

  1. The process of selecting and filtering information for dissemination

  2. The control of media content by government agencies

  3. The regulation of communication channels by industry associations

  4. The monitoring of online content by social media platforms


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Gatekeeping involves the selection and control of information by individuals or organizations before it is disseminated to the public.

The 'spiral of silence' theory suggests that:

  1. Individuals tend to conform to majority opinions in public discourse

  2. People are more likely to express their opinions when they perceive widespread support

  3. Public opinion can become polarized due to selective exposure to information

  4. Media coverage can influence the formation of public opinion


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The 'spiral of silence' theory posits that individuals may suppress their opinions if they perceive them to be unpopular or divergent from the dominant view.

The concept of 'framing' in communication refers to:

  1. The selection of specific words and phrases to convey a particular perspective

  2. The use of visual elements to enhance the impact of a message

  3. The organization of information in a logical and coherent manner

  4. The repetition of key messages to reinforce their impact


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Framing involves the strategic use of language and imagery to shape how an issue or event is perceived and interpreted.

The 'two-step flow of communication' theory suggests that:

  1. Information flows directly from media outlets to the general public

  2. Media messages are primarily disseminated through interpersonal communication

  3. Public opinion is formed solely through direct exposure to media content

  4. Communication is a linear process with a single source and receiver


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The 'two-step flow of communication' theory posits that media messages often reach the public through opinion leaders who interpret and transmit them to their social networks.

Which communication theory emphasizes the importance of nonverbal cues and body language in communication?

  1. Symbolic Interactionism

  2. Functionalism

  3. Behaviorism

  4. Nonverbal Communication Theory


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Nonverbal Communication Theory explores the role of nonverbal cues, such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language, in conveying messages and shaping communication interactions.

The concept of 'affordances' in communication refers to:

  1. The potential uses and actions enabled by a communication technology

  2. The technical specifications and capabilities of a communication device

  3. The social and cultural norms associated with a particular communication medium

  4. The economic and political factors shaping the development of communication technologies


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Affordances are the inherent properties of a communication technology that shape its potential uses and applications.

The 'elaboration likelihood model' in communication suggests that:

  1. Individuals process information more deeply when they are highly motivated and have the cognitive resources

  2. People tend to rely on heuristics and shortcuts when processing information

  3. Attitudes are formed solely through rational and logical thinking

  4. Communication effectiveness is solely determined by the persuasiveness of the message


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The 'elaboration likelihood model' posits that individuals engage in more extensive and thoughtful processing of information when they are motivated and have the cognitive capacity to do so.

The concept of 'rhetorical situation' in communication refers to:

  1. The context and circumstances surrounding a communication event

  2. The specific purpose and audience of a communication message

  3. The linguistic and stylistic choices made by a communicator

  4. The ethical and moral considerations related to a communication act


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The 'rhetorical situation' encompasses the factors and conditions that shape the communication process, including the context, audience, purpose, and constraints.

The 'communicative competence' model in communication emphasizes:

  1. The ability to use language effectively and appropriately in different contexts

  2. The possession of specialized knowledge and skills related to a particular communication field

  3. The capacity to engage in strategic and persuasive communication

  4. The development of strong interpersonal relationships through communication


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Communicative competence refers to the ability to use language and other forms of communication effectively and appropriately in various social and cultural contexts.

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