De-Mystifying the Mystery Method: An Examination of the Attitudes, Expectations and Message Factors Related to ‘Picking-up' a Hook-up Partner

• In Event: The stability of sexual attitudes and communication in a world of changing relationships

Abstract

Romantic interactions and their definitions are in a constant state of expansion and flux. Terms such as “hook-ups” (Paul & Hayes, 2002; Paul, McManus, & Hayes, 2000) and “friends with benefits” (Hughes, Morrison, & Asada, 2005) are now becoming more commonplace within society. This exploratory study examines the effectiveness of specific message factors in ‘picking-up’ romantic partners, as prescribed by the popular press book The Mystery Method (Mystery, 2007). Although research continues to investigate the many types of college sexual and dating relationships, there is a lack of research focusing on particular message features and strategies aimed at “picking-up” others with the specific intention of hooking up. This work considers the dynamics of college hookups and highlights the connections between these type of relationships and attitudes about love (Hendrick, Hendrick, & Dicke, 1998), sociosexuality (Simpson & Gangestad, 1992), hookup regret (Eshbaugh & Gute, 2008), rape empathy (Smith & Frieze, 2003), and first date and first encounter expectations (Morr & Mongeau, 2004). Recommendations for continued broad spectrum research in this area and theoretical implications are discussed.

Authors

• Benjamin Wiedmaier, San Diego State University

• Brian Spitzberg, San Diego State Univ