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Related Concept Videos

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Researchers have tested many persuasion strategies, including the foot-in-the door and the door-in-the-face techniques, in a variety of contexts. Ultimately, the principles are effective in selling products and changing people’s attitude, ideas, and behaviors (Cialdini & Goldstein, 2004).
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Peering into the Dynamics of Social Interactions: Measuring Play Fighting in Rats
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Playing Hard-to-Get: A New Look at an Old Strategy.

Laurie Houle1, Erin Barker2, Emily Pronin1

  • 1Department of Psychology, Princeton University.

Journal of Sex Research
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Playing hard-to-get may work in dating if perceived uncertainty and difficulty are optimal. Other factors like commitment, aversion to uncertainty, gender, and attachment styles also influence attraction outcomes.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology

Background:

  • Dating folklore suggests playing hard-to-get attracts mates.
  • Research indicates this strategy may backfire if attraction is withheld in return.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review research on the link between playing hard-to-get and romantic/sexual outcomes.
  • To explore the nuances of appearing uncertain or difficult to attract.

Main Methods:

  • A scoping search was conducted across PsycINFO, Sociology Source Ultimate, Anthropology Plus, and Academic Search Ultimate.
  • Keywords related to playing hard-to-get in dating contexts were used.
  • 18 studies were included in the review.

Main Results:

  • Playing hard-to-get may be effective at optimal levels of perceived uncertainty and difficulty.
  • Pursuer's commitment and aversion to uncertainty are important variables.
  • Gender and attachment styles of both partners influence efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • The efficacy of playing hard-to-get is complex and depends on multiple factors.
  • Future research should consider sociocultural norms in dating.
  • Optimal levels of perceived difficulty and uncertainty are key.