THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INTERACTION LEVELS AND IMPRESSION-FORMATION

In two experiments, we tested the hypothesis that increases in the level of interaction between a subject and an apparent stranger would result in a more positive impression of the stranger. The research was conducted in both actual (Experiment 1) and hypothetical (Experiment 2) settings. The pattern of results differed significantly between the two settings, with support for the hypothesis being shown only in the hypothetical condition. A discussion centers on gender differences in personal-space needs and the importance of reality in research.