The Pros And Cons Of A First Date

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At some point in our lives we will experience going on a first date. This date could be with someone that you’ve known for years or with someone you’ve just met. My first encounter of a first date has been by far a date that I will never forget. I wondered if my hair, makeup, and outfit were appropriate. Most importantly, it was hard for me to conduct a conversation because I wasn’t sure on what I should talk about that would make him comfortable. I didn’t want to ask millions of questions to make it seem as though it was an interview. I caught myself stuttering, talking quickly, and felt my body temperature rise during the entire date. It was very awkward and it discouraged me from dating for awhile. Then I enrolled in an interpersonal communication class and learned about uncertainty reduction and how it can occur on first dates.
Uncertainty reduction has been studied because the theorists believed that when interacting with someone the more information you learn about them the more comfortable and certain you will be. We all experience uncertainty reduction unconsciously when interacting with others. That is why small talk is very crucial because it is a great way to seek information. Also, we try to find a common ground through similarities in order to decrease awkwardness. During first dates we all wish to make a great first impression but uncertainty can interfere with that. There are many pros and cons that can occur from uncertainty reduction during a first date. My paper will focus on first date goals and expectations, nonverbal communication, dating anxiety, and topic avoidance. All of these are factors when it comes to reducing uncertainty.
What is a date
If you were to ask someone what does it mean when you say that yo...

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...ance, a direct body orientation with open arms and body, leaning forward, nodding, and a positive facial expression and vocal tone” (interpersonal textbook p. 75). This helps reduce uncertainty and creates a sense of feeling comfortable. Which is important for self-discloure, information-seeking, and hopefully future encounters. “During initial interaction and pursuant to any subsequent goals (e.g., self-presentation, relational, instrumental), individuals notice nonverbal expressions of affect that indicate interest in the ongoing encounter” (Ray, Floyd 2006). Nonverbal communication occurs before verbal communication and can also affect it and that is why it is just as important on first dates. It plays a role in the outcome of the date and reduced uncertainty produces positive nonverbal communication and therefore the possibility of another encounter increases.

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