Media use patterns, expectations, and violations : extending media multiplexity theory to extended family communication

Abstract

Following recent interest in media multiplexity theory (MMT), this manuscript reports cluster analysis of different media use patterns in extended family networks and results of an experimental study examining how participants respond to hypothetical changes in media use (i.e., increasing or decreasing use frequency) by an extended family member. After contending that MMT addresses both media use patterns and expectations, I employed expectancy violations theory to consider the extent to which communication satisfaction and tie strength moderate evaluations of media use violations. Cluster analysis revealed five different types of media use patterns among extended family ties, and family communication patterns predicted group membership. Results indicated that communication satisfaction served as a more potent and consistent moderator of violations, such that, for example, decreased media use by satisfying communicators was perceived as negative and important (but less negative and less important when committed by unsatisfying communicators). Beyond highlighting possible outcomes of violations, these results commend the nature of the relationship as a motivating force for media selection when organizational norms are absent. Implications for studying media use patterns in interpersonal relationships are discussed