This article is based on the author's dissertation, directed by Roy V. Wood, Northwestern University, 1972. The research was supported by a grant from the Spencer Foundation. The author wishes to acknowledge the assistance of Charles R. Berger, Northwestern University.
COGNITIVE COMPLEXITY, AFFECTIVE STIMULUS VALENCE, AND INFORMATION TRANSMISSION1
Version of Record online: 17 MAR 2006
Human Communication Research
Volume 2, Issue 3, pages 281–288, March 1976
How to Cite
SAINE, T. J. (1976), COGNITIVE COMPLEXITY, AFFECTIVE STIMULUS VALENCE, AND INFORMATION TRANSMISSION. Human Communication Research, 2: 281–288. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2958.1976.tb00487.x
- Issue online: 17 MAR 2006
- Version of Record online: 17 MAR 2006
Two experiments were conducted to test hypotheses derived from complexity theory regarding the interactive effect of situational variables and cognitive complexity of a communicator on the informational value of written communications. Complexity theory suggests that cognitively complex encoders, utilizing more dimensions of judgment in recognizing differences, are better able than cognitively simple encoders to distinguish the intended meaning of a communication from all competing, but inaccurate interpretations. Further, evidence exists which indicates that affective bias toward the referent of communication may lessen differences due to cognitive complexity. Much controversy has developed over the specific form of the interaction effect. Results of the experiments indicate that the superiority of cognitively complex encoders over cognitively simple ones is not limited by affective stimulus valence.