When communicators feel misunderstood, they tend to repeat themselves in a louder voice and with a slower rate of speech, even though the other person may have heard them the first time. According to Berger's planning theory, this tendency reflects which of the following concepts?
A) Cognitive complexity
B) Planning
C) The hierarchy principle
D) Plan complexity
E) Action fluidity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hierarchy principle suggests that when initial attempts to influence others fail, communicators will try to appeal to higher order needs or values. Repeating oneself in a louder voice and with a slower rate of speech is a way of attempting to get the other person to recognize the importance and urgency of what is being said, and thus appeals to their higher order attention.

When Communicators Feel Misunderstood, They Tend to Repeat Themselves in a Louder