Analysis of Symmetry/Asymmetry in Social Interaction

Abstract. This chapter analyses the relationships between the structure of data gathered from a recorded of an interactive situation and the temporal patterns (T-patterns) obtained through use of the THEME software. Various simulated interactive situations are presented, along with hypothetical data that invite reflection; an initial micro-analytic study that enables the structure of the T-patterns to be better understood is carried out also. Each of the aspects addressed in the microanalysis requires further, more specific studies. As at least two interacting subjects are involved in every social interaction, the analysis of symmetry and asymmetry relationships is particularly relevant; it has to be considered the classical concept and its adaptation to the T-patterns also. Analysis of the T-pattern structure is argued to be of special interest, the relationship between the characteristics of the codes that comprise the recording (with real or simulated data) and the patterns obtained being taken into account