Which term corresponds to a purpose of communication done because of tradition, such as shaking hands?

• A. Homeostasis
• B. Intrinsic reward
• C. Performing social rituals
• D. Reality-tester

Answer: (C)

Shaking hands is a social ritual—a conventional gesture used to greet others, show respect, and set a positive tone for an interaction. When we talk about a purpose of communication that arises from tradition, we’re referring to actions that reinforce social norms and relationships rather than mainly sharing information or pursuing personal internal satisfaction. The act of shaking hands signals goodwill, helps establish social bonds, and communicates politeness in a culturally expected way. It’s about the social function of the gesture, not about maintaining body balance (homeostasis), deriving internal reward from the act itself (intrinsic reward), or testing our understanding of reality (reality-tester). Because it encapsulates maintaining social conventions and relationships through gesture, performing social rituals is the best fit.