A general model of consensus and accuracy in interpersonal perception
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 13, 2026

Holistic Facial Composite Creation and Subsequent Video Line-up Eyewitness Identification Paradigm
Published on: December 24, 2015
1Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs 06269-1020.
Abstract:
Consensus refers to the extent to which 2 judges agree in their ratings of a common target. A general model of interpersonal perception based on Anderson's (1981) weighted-average model is developed. The model shows that increased acquaintance does not always lead to large changes in consensus. Degree of overlap between the target behaviors observed by the judges and similarity of meaning systems are key but neglected parameters. The model can also be used as a basis for determining the accuracy of person perception. In some cases, accuracy can increase with greater acquaintance, whereas consensus may not.
Related Concept Videos
The Representativeness Heuristic
Social Proof
Stereotype Content Model
Introducing Social Perception
Implicit Personality Theories
Causes of Similarity-Dissimilarity Effect

