Problem
Apply your knowledge of the determinants of attraction from Chapter 10 to answer the following questions.
Scenario I
John and Sarah have been classmates for two semesters. They always sit next to each other in class and often engage in friendly conversations during breaks. Sarah has been interested in John for a while now. Being a budding social psychologist, she sets out to deliberately influence John's attraction toward her. Sarah knows that one of the most potent determinants of our liking someone is if we believe that that person likes us. So, throughout the rest of the semester, Sarah shows interest in John through nonverbal behavior such as making prolonged eye contact and smiling at him. John, noticing Sarah's interest in him begins to mirror her behavior. At the end of the semester, John asks Sarah out on a date.
i. This is an example of what determinant of interpersonal attraction?
ii. Explain why this is an example of the selected determinant.
Scenario II
Aubrey and Michael are both new hires at a tech company. They happen to sit next to each other and discover they have a lot in common. They both enjoy playing video games, are passionate about technology, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. They start to have lunch together regularly and even plan weekend trips to go hiking together. After some time, they begin to officially date.
i. This is an example of what determinant of interpersonal attraction?
ii. Explain why this is an example of the selected determinant.
Scenario III
Jack is a regular at his local gym and has been eyeing a new member, named Olivia, who just started attending the gym. Olivia is physically fit, has an attractive physique, and is often complimented on her appearance by others at the gym. Jack finds himself drawn to her and starts finding excuses to strike up conversations with her.
i. This is an example of what determinant of interpersonal attraction?
ii. Explain why this is an example of the selected determinant.
iii. Briefly describe an empirical study that examines one of the determinants of interpersonal attraction.