In an effort to explore viable alternatives to trait and situational orientations in behavioral research, this article examines an interactionist perspective. Specifically, the role of behavioral expectations in open communication is investigated. The findings suggest that personal expectations of openness are strongly related to general predispositions to disclose and to exhibit open style, to expectations of others' open behavior, and to self-ratings of open behavior. Personal expectations for open behavior are not as strongly related to ratings of open behavior by others. The findings are discussed in terms of the implications of considering personal expectations as an interaction variable in the study of open communication.
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