Unpredictable volatility and trust: The VISA model of person perception

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Person Perception

Background:

• Existing person perception theories often overlook the role of perceived volatility and predictability in character dimensions.
• Understanding how individuals form impressions and build trust is crucial for effective interpersonal relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advance person perception theory by incorporating perceived volatility and predictability.
• To introduce the Volatility, Integrity, Sociability, and Ability (VISA) model.
• To explore the role of humor in trust formation and identify its moderators.

Main Methods:

• Development of the VISA model, integrating perceived volatility into person perception.
• Analysis of humor's impact on trust, considering its content, context, and intent.
• Literature review bridging impression formation, trust, and status.

Main Results:

• Unpredictable volatility significantly influences person perception and trust.
• Humor's effect on trust is moderated by its content, context, and the user's intent.
• The VISA model provides a framework for understanding the interplay of various character dimensions.

Conclusions:

• The VISA model offers a novel perspective on person perception by including volatility.
• Understanding the nuances of humor is key to building trust in interpersonal interactions.
• This research lays the groundwork for future studies in impression formation, trust, and status.