Communicative Framing Theory in Conflict Resolution

Abstract

This article evaluates the framing concept and its utility for communication research in conflict resolution. The framing concept holds potential heuristic value that has not been realized. The authors take three rehabilitative steps: (a) define frames as communicative, rather than cognitive, constructions, (b) provide a theoretical framework for explicating the communicative framing process and its potential impact in conflict, and (c) explore the effects of particular framing patterns on actual conflict interaction. The framing concept is enhanced through alignment with negotiated order theory, speech act theory, and speech accommodation theory. It is argued that disputants and the professionals who work with them “frame” issues, using language choices to highlight some aspects of an issue, while ignoring others. Linguistic choices function as verbal cues to other participants, who may respond by converging or diverging on frames. As expected, the results of the study found a positive relationship between frame convergence and frequency of agreements. Negotiators and mediators who guided disputant discussion toward frame convergence increased focus, control, positive social attributions, and integrativeness.