The effects of proximity and staring on perception of a social interaction

Includes bibliographical references (pages 28-30)This study explored the effects of the nonverbal cues of staring and distance en a variety of perceptual responses of the subjects. 80 Ss were equally divided into eight groups. In a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design, staring (100% vs. 0%) and distance (2 1/2 ft. vs. 12 ft.) were manipulated. Both males and females were used along with a female E which produced opposite (male-female) and same (female- female) sexed dyads. Instructions were given to Ss leading them to believe they would be giving a counterattitudinal speech. All Ss were given a choice to remain or withdraw from the experiment after the instructions were given. Dependent measures consisted of the decision to remain or withdraw, and six responses from a questionnaire which was designed to tap the S???s social perception and interpretation of the interaction with E. The decision of the Ss was not significantly affected by the experimental treatments. A multivariate analysis of variance was conducted on the six variables from the questionnaire and a main effect for staring and an interaction between sex and distance was found. Univariate ANOVA???s showed significant interactions between sex and distance on how comfortable Ss felt during the experimental situation and where the S would be most comfortable in the room. There were also main effects of staring on both the ability to perceive staring and on how well Ss liked the E. Finally, there was a main effect of distance on where Ss would be most comfortable in the room