Words Impacting Reactance: Evidence-based Strategies (WIRES)

Level 1 Training

Study highlights:

  • 54 of 58 studies identified high controlling language (need, must have to) arouses reactance while low controlling language (might, perhaps, possible) mitigates reactance

  • Reactance mitigation = 17% increase in cooperation (Dillard, Kim & Li, 2018)

  • Adding the 5 words “feel free to say no” to the end of a request increases cooperation 31% (low stakes request) to 50% (high stakes request) (Farley, Kelly, Singh & Young, 2019)

  • Studies found in several disciplines but only 2 in criminal justice and none specific to law enforcement or investigative interviewing (study only looked studies conducted in the United States)

Elements of Training:

  • Fundamental understanding of reactance

  • Understand how reactance impacts behavioral intention

  • Appreciation that one word can change the outcome of an interview

  • Research findings translated into practical application

  • Demonstration of how these findings benefit interviewers

Key Training Takeaways:

  • This study is evidence based

  • This is not a fix all or appropriate for all situations

  • Understanding reactance and making strategic linguistic choices can:

    • Increase cooperation

    • Increase information obtained

  • 2 hour training that can be implemented immediately

  • Overall, leads to a more positive perception of law enforcement officers and agencies

The WIRES (Words Impacting Reactance: Evidence-based Strategies) Level I Training is a comprehensive evidence-based program designed to equip participants with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively mitigate reactance and enhance communication outcomes. This training program incorporates evidence-based strategies derived from cognitive psychology, social psychology, and communication studies to address reactance stemming from linguistic choices in various contexts.

 The WIRES Level I Training begins building a strong foundation by explaining the the theory of reactance and how reactance impacts behavioral intention. Understanding the theory of reactance is crucial because it provides insights into human behavior, particularly in response to perceived threats to freedom. Reactance theory explains why individuals may resist or react negatively to attempts to restrict their freedom of choice or autonomy. By comprehending reactance, one can better navigate interactions with others and foster more effective communication. Awareness of reactance can aid in designing messages and interventions that minimize resistance and maximize cooperation, ultimately contributing to more successful outcomes in various interactions.

 One key component of the WIRES Level I Training is the exploration of high and low controlling language. Participants learn to recognize the impact of language on perceived freedom and autonomy, and how certain linguistic cues can evoke reactance. By identifying and minimizing high controlling language, which imposes restrictions or dictates behavior, and incorporating low controlling language that offers choices and respects autonomy, participants can reduce the likelihood of reactance and promote positive engagement.

 Choice language is another essential aspect of the WIRES Level I Training. Participants learn to incorporate choice-supportive language that empowers individuals to make decisions and assert their autonomy. By providing options and acknowledging individuals' agency, participants can foster a sense of ownership and cooperation, thereby mitigating reactance and promoting collaborative communication and interactions.

 Additionally, the WIRES Level I Training introduces participants to pre (inoculation) and post messages. Pre messages preemptively address potential sources of reactance by acknowledging opposing viewpoints, providing counterarguments, and offering reassurance. By inoculating individuals against reactance-inducing stimuli, participants can effectively manage resistance and promote receptivity to subsequent messages. On the other hand, post-message restoration postscripts come after the message. These brief follow-up messages reaffirm individuals' autonomy, validate their emotions, and provide opportunities for dialogue and resolution. By acknowledging and addressing any residual reactance or negative emotions, participants can restore trust and rapport, facilitating constructive communication and relationship building.

 Finally, participants in the WIRES Level I Training learn to identify argumentative markers – linguistic cues that signal persuasion attempts or confrontational communication. By minimizing argumentative markers and adopting a collaborative and empathetic communication style, participants can foster open dialogue, mutual understanding, and positive outcomes.

 In conclusion, the WIRES Level I Training offers a comprehensive framework for effectively managing reactance and enhancing communication effectiveness. By integrating low controlling language, choice language, pre messages, post messages and minimizing argumentative markers, participants can navigate communication challenges confidently and promote harmonious relationships in various settings.