The Effects of Shared Opinions on Nonverbal Mimicry in a Group Discussion

• In Event: Constraints and Opportunities in Group Decision Making Processes

Abstract

It was examined whether participants are more likely to mimic nonverbal behavior of someone who shares the same opinion than someone who doesn't. Participants chose between 2 vacation destinations and discussed their choice in 3 person groups. The 2 other members were confederates. One agreed with participant’s choice during discussion; one disagreed. Each confederate consistently emitted different nonverbal behavior. Results support hypothesis that participant would be more likely to mimic nonverbal behavior of agreeing confederate.

Authors

• Lyn Van Swol, University of Wisconsin, Madison

• Meghann Drury, Deloitte and Associates