Phatic small talk function – UGC NET Question

Phatic communication consists of social niceties and small talk that maintain relationships rather than convey serious information. Greetings like "How are you?" among colleagues show friendly recognition and reduce social distance. The stem describes precisely this function.

Option A:
Persuasive communication aims at changing attitudes or behaviour,which is not the purpose of simple greetings.

Option B:
Phatic expressions keep channels open and sustain interpersonal bonds,making this option correct.

Option C:
Ritualistic communication may involve formal ceremonies,rather than everyday small talk.

Option D:
Informational communication would convey substantive content,which is minimal in phatic exchanges.