Sometimes you will need to find out important information about a relational partner through interactive strategies, that is, by speaking directly with that person rather than observing or asking others for information. When “meeting” for the first time (be it in person or virtually), Shawna might ask Ramona what kind of music she likes, what major she is pursuing, and why she chose this particular school. Although direct questioning reduces some uncertainty, it also entails risks. If you ask questions that are perceived as too forward or inappropriate (for example, “What are your political beliefs?”), you might push the person away.