How does accommodation inspire communication? Examining affective and cognitive paths linking accommodation and family communication about health

Abstract

Effective family communication about health is vital in maintaining the well-being of family members. However, research exploring strategies to foster such communication remains limited. Drawing on communication accommodation theory, this study investigates how accommodation during family interactions facilitates engagement in health-related discussions. Analyzing survey data from 171 grandchild-grandparent dyads, the findings suggest that the affective function of accommodation, fostering relational closeness, mainly works at the intrapersonal level. Conversely, the cognitive function promoting discussion elaboration, yields both intrapersonal and interpersonal effects. Both pathways demonstrate the capacity to facilitate challenging yet crucial health conversations, particularly those involving health misinformation correction within families.