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Published on: December 29, 2014
An ecological examination of rapport using a dyadic puzzle task
1Department of Psychology, Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA 98447, USA. graheje@plu.edu
The Journal of Social Psychology
|January 30, 2008
Summary
Situational context influences rapport. In a study of dyadic rapport, less blame on the puzzle worker and instructor enjoyment/frustration correlated with higher rapport, alongside task difficulty and communication.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Communication Studies
Background:
- Situational context is known to influence interpersonal rapport.
- Previous research has explored behavioral and experiential predictors of dyadic rapport.
Purpose of the Study:
- To further document behavioral and experiential predictors of dyadic rapport.
- To evaluate dyadic rapport experiences when both interactants must contribute.
Main Methods:
- Sixty participants were paired into dyads to complete children's puzzles.
- One member was blindfolded and worked on the puzzle, while the other provided instructions.
- This setup created interdependence and specific roles within the dyad.
Main Results:
- Lower attribution of responsibility to the 'worker' was linked to higher rapport.
- The 'instructor's' experience of enjoyment and frustration predicted higher rapport.
- Higher dyadic rapport was also associated with task difficulty and increased communicative behavior.
Conclusions:
- Dyadic rapport is influenced by the specific roles and experiences within a task.
- Understanding attributions of responsibility and emotional experiences is key to rapport.
- The study highlights the complex interplay of factors contributing to dyadic rapport.
