The Symbolic Convergence Theory - Essay Example

However, it is important to accept and perceive correctly what is shared. Some scientists define communication as an “exchange of perception”.

It is a well-known fact that communication is very important not only in business but in our daily life. Its nature was thoroughly investigated by famous philosophers Aristotle, Socrates, and Plato. Aristotle tried to create a communication and language theory. In his work, The Rhetoric the philosopher talked about persuasion, while in another creation De Interpretation he shares his thoughts about the connection between reason and language.

The Symbolic Convergence Theory, created by Ernest Bormann, offers a general interpretation of communication between people. The creator calls his theory "social scientific research in its goal of providing generalizations that hold for a large domain of communication" (Bormann, 1982). This theory offers a technique of people communication in a small group. The given paper is designed to explain and interpret the Symbolic Convergence theory.

Explanation of the theory 

The Symbolic Convergence Theory is founded on the suggestion that individuals of one group should interchange visions to make their group more united. These kinds of visions should disclose feelings. Once interchanging a vision within a collective, it develops a figurative union. This will improve the communication inside the group and its efficiency. A person can share any information, he can talk about his impressions, his taste, the food or beverage he likes. According to Antoine, Althouse, and Ball (2005), Symbolic Convergence Theory "underscores the human tendency to share dramatized narratives, which leads to the potential for persuasion" (Antoine, Althouse, and Ball, 2005).

Symbolic Convergence Theory was applied to create models, for example, a model for recruiting. This testifies that the theory can be applied in different areas. Elizabeth M. Lloyd explains how the theory can be used in the sphere of marketing:

By alerting affiliate marketers of the symbolic convergence theory, it is possible to generate change due to what the theory suggests. People may be more open-minded toward others' attempts of "ice-breaking" conversation and begin building profitable and satisfying relationships (Lloyd)

How the Theory is used in the specific situation

To understand the Symbolic Convergence Theory better several studies were implemented.  These investigations help analyze how Symbolic Convergence Theory can be used in different life situations. 

            The first investigation was implemented by Stone in 2002. The main goal of the researcher was to define what visions made university students apply for a Master’s degree.  Fifty students were asked to share their thoughts. As a result, 27 statements were revealed and it also became clear that the university should apply dramas to influence the formation of students’ purposes. However, the results may vary depending on the university and the program (Lu).

Cragan and Shields (1992) attempted to apply symbolic convergence theory to organizational strategic planning with the purpose to find out if the theory can help direct the activity of the organization. Two scientists were hired by the company, which needed to improve their human resource management. As a result of symbolic convergence theory,the company’s team defined its main goals. Unfortunately, it was determined that employees’ visions did not correspond with the real situation, so could not be used to improve it. Thus, the conclusion was made that symbolic convergence theory should not be applied for optimization communication.

Endres (1997) applied the theory for family relations to study father-daughter relationships and further psychological development of daughtercard. daughterless were successful, according to Endres, “this study goes beyond father-daughter typologies found in popular culture” (Endres, 1997).

Conclusion

The Symbolic Convergence Theory, created by Ernest Bormann, offers a general interpretation of communication between people. The Symbolic Convergence Theory is founded on the suggestion that individuals of one group should interchange visitors to make king their group more united. These kinds of visions should disclose feeling. Once feelings a vision within a collective, it develops a figurative union. This will improve the communication inside the group and its efficiency.

The Symbolic Convergence Theory can help us identify common goals and common interests. Different investigations testify that it can be applied in a different situation to under we should share our visions, thus the theory can help people feel more comfortable and improve the communication inside the group.