AN ANALYSIS OF INDIVIDUAL RHYTHM IN FACE-TO-FACE INTERACTION

Six female subjects formed fifteen pairs (C-6(2) = 15), and each dyad had a conversation in a laboratory. Assuming that speech, gaze, and nods were the main actions that expressed individual ''rhythm'' in face-to-face interaction, each subject's actions was analyzed on videotape. First, as a summary of individual ''rhythm'', profiles of action tempo and pattern were described. Tempo and pattern differences (TD and PD, respectively) between the two of each pair were then computed. TD showed a linear relationship with some of the specific feelings the two had of each other and their experimental interaction, while PD had a curvilinear relationship with the general feelings toward the partner in non-experimental, daily interactions. It was also suggested that social skills highly affected the degree to which subjects coordinate their tempo to others'. The meaning of individual ''rhythm'' in face-to-face interaction was discussed.