Expectancy Violations Theory is one of the few theories specifically focusing on what people expect-and their reactions to others-in conversations. The assumptions and core concepts clearly demonstrate the importance of nonverbal messages and information processing. EVT also enhances our understanding of how expectations influence conversational distance. The theory uncovers what takes place in the minds of communicators and how communicators monitor nonverbal behavior during their conversations. Among the criteria for evaluating a theory, three seem especially relevant for discussion: scope, testability, and utility.

Scope

At first glance, the scope of this theory may appear to be too broad; nonverbal communication is an expansive area. Yet Burgoon’s theory has parameters in that she originally conceptualized one category of nonverbal communication as she articulated her theory: personal space. She has investigated and expanded her research to include other nonverbal behaviors such as eye gaze, yet her original work was clear in scope.

Testability

Some scholars (e.g., Sparks & Greene, 1992) have criticized the clarity of concepts in Burgoon’s theory, suggesting that testability may be problematic. Sparks and Greene comment that self-perceptions of arousal are not valid measures. They specifically note that Burgoon and her associates failed to establish valid indices of observers’ ratings and believe “we should not accept the claim about the validity of any nonverbal index until that validity has been demonstrated” (p. 468). This intellectual debate may appear trivial to you, yet recall that arousal is a key component of EVT. LaPoire and Burgoon (1992) responded to this criticism by first claiming that Sparks and Greene did not fairly reflect the objectives of Burgoon’s research. Additionally, LaPoire and Burgoon contend that because arousal is such a complicated and layered concept, their approach to defining arousal remains valid.

Generally speaking, EVT is a testable theory. In Chapter 3, we noted that testability requires that theorists be specific in their concepts. In fact, Burgoon (1978) is one of a few theorists who clearly defines her terms; as she refined her theory, she also clarified past ambiguities. In doing so, she presents a foundation from which future researchers might continue to draw and replicate her claims.

Utility

The practicality of EVT is apparent. Burgoon’s theory presents advice on how to elicit favorable impressions and discusses the implications of space violations, a topic that affects countless conversations. From the early writings (Burgoon & Jones, 1976) to more recent work (Campso, Cameron, Brossard, & Frazer, 2004), research employing an EVT framework has fulfilled the criterion of utility.

Expectancy Violations Theory is an important theory because it offers a way to link behavior and cognitions. It is one of the few communication theories that offers us a better understanding of our need for both other people and personal space. For that, Burgoon’s work will continue to be critical and pioneering in the communication discipline.