Language Style Matching as a Predictor of Social Dynamics in Small Groups

Gonzales, A. L., Hancock, J. T., Pennebaker, J. W. — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:39:48 PST

Synchronized verbal behavior can reveal important information about social dynamics. This study introduces the linguistic style matching (LSM) algorithm for calculating verbal mimicry based on an automated textual analysis of function words. The LSM algorithm was applied to language generated during a small group discussion in which 70 groups comprised of 324 individuals engaged in an information search task either face-to-face or via text-based computer-mediated communication. As a metric, LSM predicted the cohesiveness of groups in both communication environments, and it predicted task performance in face-to-face groups. Other language features were also related to the groups’ cohesiveness and performance, including word count, pronoun patterns, and verb tense. The results reveal that this type of automated measure of verbal mimicry can be an objective, efficient, and unobtrusive tool for predicting underlying social dynamics. In total, the study demonstrates the effectiveness of using language to predict change in social psychological factors of interest.

Examining Reactance and Reactance Restoration With South Korean Adolescents: A Test of Psychological Reactance Within a Collectivist Culture

Quick, B. L., Kim, D. K. — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:38:42 PDT

The purpose of this study is to extend the recent operationalization of reactance to a non-Western culture, namely, South Korea. The study uses structural equation modeling, and the findings reveal a significant positive association between controlling language and perceived threat to freedom. Consistent with extant research, a significant positive association emerged between a perceived freedom threat and reactance for South Korean adolescents. Findings from this study support treating reactance as a latent variable comprised of unfavorable cognitions and anger. In addition, in line with psychological reactance theory predictions, reactance arousal is significantly associated with a host of boomerang effects. Results are discussed with an emphasis on the role of psychology reactance theory among adolescents within a collectivist culture.

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Language Style Matching as a Predictor of Social Dynamics in Small Groups

Examining Reactance and Reactance Restoration With South Korean Adolescents: A Test of Psychological Reactance Within a Collectivist Culture