Intended Perlocutionary Effect

Overview

The intended perlocutionary effect refers to the specific psychological or behavioral change a speaker aims to achieve in the listener by uttering something. It’s the desired outcome of an utterance, distinct from its literal meaning (locutionary act) or the act of saying it (illocutionary act).

Key Concepts

Key concepts related to the intended perlocutionary effect include:

• Desired Response: The specific action, belief, or emotion the speaker wants to evoke.
• Audience Analysis: Understanding the listener’s predispositions to achieve the intended effect.
• Persuasion: Often a core component, aiming to change attitudes or behaviors.

Deep Dive

Austin and Searle’s speech act theory highlights three dimensions: locutionary (what is said), illocutionary (the speaker’s intention in saying it), and perlocutionary (the effect on the listener). The intended perlocutionary effect is what the speaker hopes to achieve, which may or may not align with the actual perlocutionary effect.

Applications

This concept is crucial in various fields:

• Marketing and Advertising: Creating messages to persuade consumers.
• Politics: Crafting speeches to influence voters.
• Interpersonal Communication: Negotiating, advising, or comforting.
• Literature and Rhetoric: Analyzing how texts move readers emotionally or intellectually.

Challenges & Misconceptions

A common misconception is that the intended perlocutionary effect is guaranteed. However, communication is complex, and listeners interpret messages based on their own backgrounds, leading to unintended effects. The success of the intended effect depends on many factors.

FAQs

What is the difference between illocutionary and perlocutionary effects?

The illocutionary force is the speaker’s intention (e.g., to warn), while the perlocutionary effect is the actual impact on the listener (e.g., they feel scared).

Can the intended perlocutionary effect be negative?

Yes, for example, the intended effect of a threat is to cause fear.

Is the intended perlocutionary effect always achieved?

No, it is often not achieved due to misinterpretation or external factors.