| In order to empirically test Necessary Convergence Communication theory (Miller-Day, 2004), a valid measurement of the convergence communication construct is needed. In this study, a convergence communication scale is developed, refined, and then applied to a preliminary testing of the necessary convergence communication theoretical model. The convergence communication scale was normed on 373 respondents and results suggest a valid and reliable instrument that assesses the construct of convergence communication as well as its three subscales of motivation, interpersonal deference, and disequilibrium. Convergence communication was significantly associated with impeded differentiation of self and increased learned helplessness, and was able to predict depression when controlling for these variables. There were also moderate associations between convergence communication and depression as well as physical aggression. |
