Which term describes adopting similar communication patterns when speaking with someone?

• A. Neutralize
• B. Social Penetration Theory
• C. De-Penetration
• D. Mimicry

Answer: (D)

Mimicry (mirroring) describes adopting similar communication patterns when talking with someone. By matching things like speaking pace, tone, volume, and even nonverbal cues, you signal understanding and alignment, which helps build rapport and liking. This makes conversations smoother and fosters a sense of connection in intimate relationships.

Neutralize is about dampening emotion or hostility, not pattern matching. De-penetration refers to withdrawing and reducing self-disclosure. Social Penetration Theory explains how intimacy grows through layers of self-disclosure, not the act of copying someone’s communication style. So mimicry best fits the described behavior.