At First Sight: Persistent Relational Effects of Get-Acquainted Conversations

doi:10.1177/0265407504042837

Paper

At First Sight: Persistent Relational Effects of Get-Acquainted Conversations

Published Jun 1, 2004 · Michael Sunnafrank, Artemio Ramirez

Journal of Social and Personal Relationships

Q1 SJR score

215

Citations

10

Influential Citations

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Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that relational partners make decisions within the first few weeks of a relationship that determine the long-term nature of the relationship. The study reported here extends that research, predicting that such decisions and influences are apparent after brief first encounters. Students in several sections of a skills-oriented communication course reported reactions to a randomly assigned classmate after a brief conversation on the first day of class and the status of their relationship during week 9 of the term. Predicted Outcome Value Theory was employed to generate hypotheses. Results strongly support the theory, with perceptions formed during initial conversations influencing relationships in week 9.

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Study Snapshot

Brief first encounters significantly influence long-term relationship decisions and influence perceptions in week 9.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

At First Sight: Persistent Relational Effects of Get-Acquainted Conversations

References

Citations