Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2025

Author Spotlight: A Novel Setup to Conduct Naturalistic Laboratory Experiments with Real Human Actors in Scenarios
Published on: August 4, 2023
Mimicry and law: Experiments in a natural setting of a law company
Wojciech Kulesza1, Paweł Muniak1, Dariusz Dolinski2
1SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Psychology in Warsaw, Centre for Research on Social Relations, Warsaw, Masovia, Poland.
Abstract:
This paper joins an effort to build a relational approach to law practice by testing mimicry as a vehicle for building trust in a legal context. Mimicry research indicates that this phenomenon leads to benefits, like greater trust, willingness to help, and satisfaction from interactions, which shows a potential for practical applications in, for example, a legal context. In two experiments conducted in the natural setting of a legal company, the tendency to trust the mimicker on a yet unresearched and deep level, namely putting one's legal future and security in the hands of an attorney, was measured. Both experiments consistently showed a greater tendency to give legal representation to an attorney when she verbally (Experiment #1) as well as both verbally and nonverbally (Experiment #2) mimicked the client. This paper explores the potential of applying mimicry in a legal service environment, focusing on fostering cooperation in professional conversations. Furthermore, the study contributes to the existing literature on mimicry by examining its effect on trust. Possible dangers, future studies and limitations are also discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Nonconscious Mimicry
Naturalistic Observations
Observational Learning
Modeling and Similitude
Law of Effect
Edward Thorndike's foundational work involved studying learning in animals, particularly using puzzle...
Predator-Prey Interactions

