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Silvan Tomkins
Definition
Script Theory is a cognitive framework that
explains how people understand and organize
events and actions in sequences based on past
experiences.
Origin
Script theory was first introduced and presented
by Silvan Tomkins in 1954 as an extension of his
affect theory, but was further developed in late
1970s by Roger Schank.
Roger Schank
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Scripts are mental templates that
guide behaviors in familiar
scenarios
It helps people know what to
expect, how to act, and how to
interact smoothly with others.
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Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Take a seat and read
through the menu
Place an order with the
barista
Wait for the drink
Enjoy the coffee with
friends
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1. Structured
Scripts provide a step-by-step guide for
specific activities.
2. Predictable
They reduce uncertainty by setting expectations for
behavior.
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3. Dynamic
Scripts can vary across cultures, contexts,
and individuals.
Example
Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony
Swedish Fika
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What do Script do?
Scripts work as cognitive frameworks that organize
and guide our understanding of familiar situations.
01
Setting Expectations
Scripts outline what typically happens in familiar
situations
02
Guiding Behavior
They act as mental guides, ensuring smooth
interactions.
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03
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Filling in Missing Information
Scripts help predict what to do even
in new, unfamiliar situations.
04
Adjusting to Cultural Variations
Scripts vary across cultures and contexts.
People learn cultural scripts naturally through:
Observation, Participation, Repetition
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Swedish Fika and Ethiopian Coffe
Ceremony are structured and repeated in
their culture overtime following a script.
The steps performed is related with
cultural meaning behind the action.
There is cultural meaning and symbolic
such as community, hospitality, and
connection.
Swedish Fika
Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony
Taking a break during workdays, drinking
coffee with treats, and socializing.
Serving in age-based order, and wafting
smokes to the participants.
Cultural meaning
Work-life balance and equality
The gestures and signs of respect and
hospitality
Script’s benefit
Following a script in coffee ritual can help participants to feel connected to each other
as well as preserve cultural traditions
The scripts
01
Key concept
Script theory: a cognitive framework that helps us understand and
organize familiar events and actions.
Scripts, as templates, guide our behavior and expectations in everyday
situations
04
Importance of Scripts
By reducing uncertainty and cognitive load, scripts
make our interactions smoother and more
predictable