What is Exigence?
Exigence is a term used in communication theory to refer to an issue, problem, or situation that prompts someone to communicate a message in order to address it. It is the underlying reason or motivation behind why communication is necessary in a given context.
Examples of Exigence
For example, a company facing a public relations crisis might have the exigence of repairing its damaged reputation, prompting it to issue a statement or hold a press conference. In personal relationships, a misunderstanding could create an exigence for clarifying communication to resolve the conflict.
Case Studies
One notable case study of exigence is the Tylenol poisoning crisis in the 1980s. When several people died after consuming tainted Tylenol capsules, the exigence for Johnson & Johnson was to protect public safety and restore consumer trust. The company’s swift and transparent communication strategy helped mitigate the crisis.
Importance of Exigence
Identifying exigence is crucial for effective communication. By understanding the underlying issue or problem that needs to be addressed, communicators can tailor their messages to resonate with their audience and achieve their communication goals.
Statistics on Exigence
A study conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 87% of respondents believe that addressing exigent issues should be a top priority for companies and organizations. This highlights the importance of recognizing and responding to exigence in communication.
