Multi-Dimensional Approach to the Experimental Study of Interpersonal Attraction: Effect of a Blunder on the Attractiveness of a Competent other

Abstract

Factor-analysis was used to explore the feasibility of a multidimensional approach to the study of interpersonal attraction in an experimental context. S completed a battery of attraction items concerning an O he heard on tape. In a 2 × 2 × 2 design, O either blundered or not, was the same age or older than 5, and held similar or different opinions. These attraction ratings were then factor-analyzed and factor scores later used in analyses of variance for experimental conditions. The two factors extracted were related to socio-emotional and task-related aspects of interpersonal attraction. Interestingly enough, the Similarity dimension was significant on both of these independent factors. The study provides support for a multi-dimensional conceptualization of interpersonal attraction.

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