NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Publication Date
In 20250
Since 20240
Since 2021 (last 5 years)1
Since 2016 (last 10 years)1
Since 2006 (last 20 years)1
Descriptor
Ambiguity (Context)1
Communication Strategies1
Cultural Influences1
Health Personnel1
Information Dissemination1
Interpersonal Communication1
Interpersonal Relationship1
Language Usage1
Letters (Correspondence)1
Social Values1
Source
Discourse Processes: A…1
Author
Clelland, Harry T.1
Haigh, Matthew1
Publication Type
Journal Articles1
Reports - Research1
Education Level
Audience
Location
Laws, Policies, & Programs
Assessments and Surveys
What Works Clearinghouse Rating
Showing one result Save | Export
Politeness and the Communication of Uncertainty When Breaking Bad News
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Direct linkDirect link
Clelland, Harry T.; Haigh, Matthew – Discourse Processes: A Multidisciplinary Journal, 2023
Uncertain language can be used to express genuine uncertainty but can also be used to manage face (e.g., by softening bad news). These conflicting motivations can create ambiguity in health communication. In this preregistered two-part experiment, participants assumed the position of a health specialist and wrote a letter communicating either a…
Descriptors: Communication Strategies, Language Usage, Interpersonal Relationship, Social Values