Ethical Considersations

Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful local governance. In times of crisis, the ability to convey accurate information, coordinate responses, and maintain public trust is paramount. When creating your plan, consider the Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT).

In an effort to explore the intricacies of local government communications, Howard Giles developed CAT. The theory provides a framework for understanding the ways in which individuals adjust their communication styles to converge with or diverge from their interlocutors. Examining local government communication through the lens of CAT, allows for a comprehensive understanding of strategies to enhance interaction between government entities and the public, particularly in crisis situations.

It is important to adapt communication styles to meet the needs of diverse community members, ensuring clarity, building trust, and facilitating effective crisis management.

Considerations

Ethical Problems & Dilemmas

Working in politically charged environments can often lead to ethical dilemmas. The balance between offering necessary and honest information, while also protecting the candidate or government agency, has been incredibly delicate.

Ethical Problems and Dilemmas

In times of crisis, several ethical dilemmas can arise:

  • Balancing Transparency and Sensitivity: While transparency is crucial for maintaining public trust, it is essential to balance it with community and cultural sensitivity to avoid causing unnecessary panic or distress. This involves carefully considering which information to disclose and how to best present that information to the community.

  • Ensuring Inclusivity without Over-accommodation: Striking a balance between being inclusive and avoiding over-accommodation is challenging. Over-accommodation can come off as patronizing, while under-accommodation can lead to misunderstandings or alienation.

  • Cultural Sensitivity vs. Stereotyping: While it is important to be culturally sensitive, there is a risk of inadvertently reinforcing stereotypes. Ethical communication requires a nuanced understanding of cultural diversity and avoiding simplistic or reductive representations.

  • Privacy vs. Public Safety: During crises, there might be tension between respecting individual privacy and ensuring public safety. Ethical considerations must guide decisions about the use and dissemination of certain information.

Communication Accommodation Theory

An Overview

Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) assumes individuals adjust their communication behaviors to either converge (become more similar) or diverge (become more distinct) from their conversational partners. The key concepts of CAT include:

  • Convergence: Adjusting one's communication style to be more like that of the interlocutor (conversational partners), which can enhance understanding and rapport.

  • Divergence: Deliberately accentuating differences in communication style, which can assert identity or highlight distinctions.

  • Over-accommodation: Excessive adjustment that can be perceived as patronizing or inappropriate.

  • Under-accommodation: Insufficient adjustment that can lead to misunderstandings or perceived insensitivity.

Relevance

Applying CAT to local government communications offers insights into the ways in which officials can effectively engage with diverse community members. By understanding and adapting to the communication preferences and needs of different groups, local governments can foster better relationships, improve information dissemination, and enhance crisis management.

Context

Historical Context of Local Government Communications

Evolution of Local Government Communication Practices

Historically, local government communications have evolved from simple public notices and town hall meetings to sophisticated, multi-channel strategies involving digital media, social networks, and real-time updates. This evolution reflects the growing complexity and diversity of local communities and the increasing expectations for transparency and responsiveness.

Impact of Local Government Communication Failures

Failures in local government communication can have severe consequences, ranging from public mistrust to ineffective crisis responses. Notable examples include inadequate communication during natural disasters, which can exacerbate the crisis and hinder recovery efforts. The disastrous communications response to hurricane Katrina and the subsequent mistrust of government communications provides a prime example. Learning from these failures underscores the importance of effective communication strategies.