Patient–Provider Orientation as a Language Expectancy Origin for Controlling Language in Doctor–Patient Interactions

The use of controlling language by physicians is examined to further understand congruence between doctor and patient language use. Language expectancy theory (LET) provides the framework for making predictions about expectations for controlling language. This study adds to our understanding of LET by examining personality variables to predict language expectations. Effects of interactions between expectancy violations and patient–physician orientation on anger, behavior change, source credibility, and controlling language are predicted. Positively violating expectations for controlling language use resulted in less anger, negative behavior change, and higher ratings of controllingness. Future directions are offered studying controlling language in doctor–patient interactions.