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Using nonconscious behavioral mimicry to create affiliation and rapport.
Jessica L Lakin1, Tanya L Chartrand
1Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus 43210, USA. lakin.6@osu.edu
Psychological Science
|June 17, 2003
Summary
People unconsciously copy behaviors when they want to connect with others. This nonconscious behavioral mimicry increases when individuals have a goal to affiliate or experience social exclusion.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Human Interaction
Background:
- Nonconscious behavioral mimicry involves the unintentional imitation of others' actions.
- Previous research suggests a direct perception-action link underlies mimicry.
- The role of social motivation in modulating mimicry remains less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether the goal to affiliate enhances nonconscious behavioral mimicry.
- To examine the impact of affiliation success or failure on subsequent mimicry.
- To explore the adaptive function of mimicry in social bonding.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted to test the influence of affiliation goals on mimicry.
- Participants' nonconscious behavioral mimicry was measured during interactions.
- Experiment 2 manipulated the success or failure of participants' affiliation attempts.
Main Results:
- Having an affiliation goal significantly increased nonconscious behavioral mimicry.
- Individuals who failed to affiliate showed greater mimicry than those who did not.
- These findings support the idea that mimicry is modulated by social motives.
Conclusions:
- Nonconscious behavioral mimicry is a tool used to foster rapport and social connection.
- The desire to affiliate or overcome social exclusion can unconsciously drive imitation.
- Behavioral mimicry is an adaptive, nonconscious strategy employed to build social bonds.
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