Inappropriate accommodation in communication to elders: inferences about nonverbal correlates

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Communication Studies
• Gerontology

Background:

• Communication Accommodation Theory suggests overaccommodation towards elders stems from stereotypes of frailty.
• Previous research indicates patronizing communication styles negatively impact intergenerational interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of nonverbal behaviors in overaccommodation towards elders.
• To examine the impact of patronizing versus neutral conversational styles on perceived respect and frustration.

Main Methods:

• Adult volunteers (N=120) read conversations between a nursing home resident and nurse, presented in patronizing or neutral styles.
• Participants rated the conversational styles and associated nonverbal behaviors.
• A smaller sample (N=50) of formal care providers was included for replication.

Main Results:

• The patronizing conversational style was rated as less respectful, less nurturant, and more frustrating than the neutral style.
• Negative nonverbal behaviors were more likely with the patronizing style, while positive nonverbal behaviors were less likely.
• Patronizing communication's negative impact was pronounced in high-demand instrumental tasks.

Conclusions:

• Patronizing communication styles in elder care are associated with negative nonverbal cues.
• Reducing overaccommodation and patronizing behaviors can improve communication quality and resident experience.
• Findings support the need for training formal care providers to avoid stereotypical communication patterns.