Politeness Theory, developed by Penelope Brown and Stephen Levinson, explores how individuals manage face-threatening acts in communication by employing strategies to maintain social harmony and mitigate potential conflicts. The theory distinguishes between positive and negative politeness strategies, which aim to address the listener's need for approval and autonomy, respectively.

Politeness Theory

Face-threatening acts are communicative actions that infringe on a listener's need to maintain self-esteem and be respected by others, often challenging their social identity or authority. Understanding and mitigating these acts is crucial in maintaining politeness and effective interpersonal communication.

face-threatening acts

Social harmony refers to a state of peaceful coexistence and cooperation within a community, where diverse groups and individuals work together towards common goals while respecting each other's differences. It is achieved through fostering mutual understanding, tolerance, and equitable distribution of resources, promoting a sense of belonging and shared responsibility.

social harmony

mitigate potential conflicts

Positive politeness strategies

negative politeness strategies

listener's need for approval

Listener's need for autonomy

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