Convergence Communication Scale: Instrument Development and Theory Testing
Open Access
Author:
Walker, Amber Marie
Graduate Program:
Communication Arts and Sciences
Degree:
Doctor of Philosophy
Document Type:
Dissertation
Date of Defense:
August 29, 2007
Committee Members:
Michelle Miller Day, Committee Chair/Co-Chair Jon F Nussbaum, Committee Member Denise Haunani Solomon, Committee Member Mary Beth Oliver, Committee Member
Keywords:
meaning in communication convergence communication
Abstract:
In order to empirically test Necessary Convergence Communication theory (Miller-Day, 2004), a valid measurement of the convergence communication construct is needed. In this study, a convergence communication scale is developed, refined, and then applied to a preliminary testing of the necessary convergence communication theoretical model. The convergence communication scale was normed on 373 respondents and results suggest a valid and reliable instrument that assesses the construct of convergence communication as well as its’ three subscales of motivation, interpersonal deference, and disequilibrium. Convergence communication was significantly associated with impeded differentiation of self and increased learned helplessness, and was able to predict depression when controlling for these variables. There were also moderate associations between convergence communication and depression as well as physical aggression.