Olivia is enjoying the bus ride home from work until a stranger gets on and sits directly behind her. There are plenty of empty seats on the bus, so his decision to sit close to her makes her uncomfortable. She thinks the man is creepy and considers moving to a different seat. Which of the following theories explains Olivia's reaction?
A) Nonverbal accommodation theory
B) Expectancy violation theory
C) Proxemic engagement theory
D) Disfluency compensation theory

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Expectancy violation theory explains Olivia's reaction because it focuses on how people respond when their personal space expectations are violated, as in the case where the stranger sits unusually close to her despite many available seats.

Olivia Is Enjoying the Bus Ride Home from Work Until