Understanding Nonverbal Behavior and Motivation

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason given in the passage that might explain why someone would pluck an apple in the Garden of Eden?

  • She was tempted by the forbidden fruit
  • She was paid. (correct)
  • She was inquisitive.
  • She was bored.

According to the passage, what is an important point to remember about nonverbal behavior?

  • It is always the most accurate indicator of someone's true feelings.
  • It is often difficult to determine the true meaning behind someone's nonverbal behavior. (correct)
  • It can be a reliable predictor of future actions.
  • It is essential for forming accurate first impressions.

What is the main idea of the passage?

  • To discuss the complexities of attributing causes to other people's behaviors. (correct)
  • To explain the concept of belief perseverance and how it affects our understanding of the world.
  • To explore the importance of nonverbal communication in forming accurate impressions of others.
  • To present a humorous interpretation of the biblical story of Adam and Eve.

Which of the following is NOT a common example of belief perseverance, as described in the passage?

<p>Weather forecasters who have difficulty predicting snowfall totals accurately. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a question posed in the passage about why someone might pluck an apple in the Garden of Eden?

<p>Was she tempted? (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements regarding the power-posing research is true?

<p>Participants who posed in a high-power posture adopted riskier strategies on a subsequent gambling task. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The passage suggests that forming an accurate understanding of others' motivations can be challenging because:

<p>All of the above. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, how do we understand the motivations behind others' actions?

<p>We analyze their behavior in light of our own motivations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest is a common human trait?

<p>A desire to understand the behavior of others (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, why are reality television shows so popular?

<p>They allow viewers to judge and analyze the behavior of others. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's primary point about interpreting the behavior of others?

<p>It is an essential aspect of social interaction and understanding. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a source of information for understanding the behavior of others?

<p>Astrological signs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's purpose in mentioning 'Teen Mom', 'Real Housewives', 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians', and 'The Bachelor'?

<p>To illustrate the popularity of reality television shows focused on personal lives. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'attributions' refer to in the context of the passage?

<p>The assumptions we make about people's personalities and motivations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What point is the author making by mentioning the homeless man's interest in the couple's breakup?

<p>Even in difficult circumstances, people naturally seek to understand others. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When attributions for a partner's behavior are made in a distressed marriage, what is the typical pattern regarding negative behaviors?

<p>They are attributed to internal causes, such as personality flaws. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, what is the common tendency regarding attributions for a partner's positive behaviors in distressed marriages?

<p>They are attributed to external causes, such as trying to impress others. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the suggested approach to observing the attribution process in action?

<p>Engaging in conversations with friends and observing their attributional strategies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of the "TRY IT!" section?

<p>To provide a practical way for readers to observe and identify attributional strategies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the passage suggest about the consequences of attributing a partner's negative behaviors to internal causes in a distressed relationship?

<p>It can further escalate the problems and negatively impact the future of the relationship. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The passage mentions "external causes" and "internal causes" in relation to attributions. Which of the following is an example of an "external cause" mentioned in the passage?

<p>A partner's attempt to impress friends (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The passage suggests that attributions are a part of daily life. Which of the following activities would NOT typically involve making attributions?

<p>Participating in a cooking class and learning new techniques (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point the passage is trying to convey regarding attributions in relationships?

<p>The way we make attributions can have a significant impact on our relationships. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a culture that values direct eye gaze in the text?

<p>African (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a person's use of personal space communicate?

<p>Their cultural background (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The text suggests that in cultures where direct eye contact is considered disrespectful:

<p>People may avoid looking others in the eye. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest about the meaning of nonverbal behavior in different cultures?

<p>Nonverbal behavior can be misinterpreted if cultural differences are not understood. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT described as a nonverbal behavior that can vary across cultures?

<p>Written communication (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point of the text regarding "Display Rules"?

<p>Display Rules are culturally determined guidelines for appropriate nonverbal behavior. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The text exemplifies cultural differences in personal space by highlighting the contrast between:

<p>North America and certain other cultures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the text's example of "dark sunglasses" relevant to the topic of nonverbal communication?

<p>Dark sunglasses can make it difficult to interpret nonverbal cues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Sierra doubt Janice's statement about being fine?

<p>Sierra believes Janice is exaggerating her happiness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a nonverbal cue that can convey emotions?

<p>Word choice (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to understand nonverbal cues?

<p>To improve communication and understanding in social interactions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point the passage suggests about studying nonverbal communication?

<p>Studying nonverbal communication in its natural context, where multiple cues occur simultaneously, is beneficial. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the exercise with a friend, as described in the text?

<p>To practice identifying specific emotions through nonverbal cues. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the author support the claim that nonverbal communication is important?

<p>By highlighting the role of nonverbal cues in political debates and media analysis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's attitude towards the study of nonverbal communication?

<p>Enthusiastic, as the author highlights the significance of nonverbal communication. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a possible interpretation of Sierra's opinion about Janice's statement?

<p>Sierra thinks Janice is telling the truth but feels she should be more honest. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the Covariation Model, what are the three key types of information we examine when forming an attribution?

<p>Consensus, Distinctiveness, and Consistency (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Covariation Model?

<p>Determining whether to make an internal or external attribution (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios demonstrates the concept of 'consistency' in the Covariation Model?

<p>Your friend always refuses to lend you her car, even when you've been particularly nice to her. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on Kelley's theory, what does it mean when an individual's behavior 'covaries'?

<p>The behavior changes over time and place. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the three key types of information identified by Kelley's Covariation Model?

<p>Attribution (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the Covariation Model, what is meant by 'distinctiveness' in relation to a behavior?

<p>The extent to which the behavior is unique to a particular situation or target. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In Kelley's Covariation Model, what is meant by 'consensus'?

<p>Whether others behave similarly to the individual in the same situation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, which of the following is most likely to lead us to make an external attribution?

<p>Observing most other people behaving differently from this individual. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Fascination with Behavior

The inherent interest in understanding why people act as they do.

Observable Behavior

Actions, words, and non-verbal cues that are visible and can be interpreted.

Cues and Impressions

Subtle signals and first impressions that help form opinions about others.

Human Cognition and Media

Understanding others influences our entertainment choices, like reality shows.

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Attribution

The process of forming conclusions about others' motivations and personalities.

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Reality Television Appeal

The popularity of shows featuring real people, based on our desire to understand them.

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Psychological Curiosity

The deep urge to explain and understand human behavior.

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Impression Formation

Creating opinions about others based on observed behaviors and expressions.

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Nonverbal Communication

Communication without words, using facial expressions, tone, or body language.

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Tone of Voice

The quality or emotion expressed through how words are spoken.

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Pitch Variation

Changing the highness or lowness of your voice to convey emotion.

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Speed of Speech

The rate at which someone speaks, affecting emotional interpretation.

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Loudness and Softness

Volume of voice used to convey emotions or emphasis in speech.

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Word Stress

Emphasis placed on certain words to change or highlight meaning.

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Facial Expressions

Visible emotional responses shown on one's face.

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Integration of Nonverbal Cues

Using multiple nonverbal signals together to convey a message.

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Distressed Marriages

Marriages where partners are unhappy and have negative interactions.

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Attribution Patterns

The different ways individuals explain their partner's behaviors in relationships.

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Positive Behaviors Attribution

In distressed relationships, positive actions are seen as influenced by external factors.

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Negative Behaviors Attribution

Negative actions are blamed on the partner's character in troubled marriages.

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Internal Attributions

Attributing someone's behavior to their personal traits or character.

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External Attributions

Attributing someone's behavior to situational factors outside their control.

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Consequences of Negative Attributions

Making negative attributions can worsen relationship distress and future outcomes.

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Observing Attributions in Conversations

Listening to others reveal their attribution style can inform about their thinking.

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Belief Perseverance

The tendency to hold on to a belief even when faced with contradictory evidence.

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High-Power Pose

A posture that implies confidence, such as standing with arms outstretched.

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Low-Power Pose

A stance that conveys submission or lack of power, like hunching or curling up.

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Causal Attribution

The process of explaining the causes of behaviors and events.

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Nonverbal Behavior

Communication without words, using gestures, body language, and facial expressions.

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First Impression Formation

The initial judgment we make about someone based on their behavior and appearance.

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Jury Deliberation Dynamics

The psychological influences and interactions during jury decision-making.

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Riskier Strategies

Deciding on options that have higher potential rewards but also higher chances of failure.

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Eye Contact

A form of nonverbal communication involving looking directly at someone’s eyes during interaction.

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Personal Space

The physical distance maintained between individuals, which varies by culture.

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Cultural Norms

Rules and expectations that dictate appropriate behavior in a specific culture.

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Display Rules

Culturally determined guidelines for appropriately expressing emotions nonverbally.

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Gaze Behavior

The way individuals look at each other, which can convey interest or aggression.

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Cultural Differences

Variations in behavior, beliefs, and values between societies that affect communication.

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Misunderstanding in Interaction

Confusion that arises when individuals from different cultures communicate.

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Covariation Model

A theory that explains how we attribute behaviors by analyzing multiple information sources over time and context.

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Consensus

How much do others agree in their judgments of a person's behavior?

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Distinctiveness

Does a person's behavior vary in different situations or stay the same?

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Consistency

How often does a person display the same behavior in similar situations over time?

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Attribution Process

The method by which individuals explain the causes of behavior in themselves and others.

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Fritz Heider's Contribution

Heider suggested we often view behaviors as caused internally by the person rather than by external factors.

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Study Notes

Social Perception: How We Come to Understand Other People

  • People are fascinated by understanding others' behavior, trying to figure out why they act the way they do.
  • We rely on observable behavior – actions, words, facial expressions, and body language – to understand others.
  • Nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in understanding people. Facial expressions, tone of voice, gestures, body language, and touch are all used to convey emotion, attitudes, and personality.
  • First impressions are formed very quickly, often in less than a 100 milliseconds. These rapid judgments are based on facial appearance and can influence future interactions.
  • "Baby face" features are perceived as having childlike traits (naive, warm, submissive).
  • We can make accurate judgements of sexual orientation, personalities, and even political candidates based on quick glances at faces.
  • Thin-slicing, the ability to form meaningful impressions of others based on very brief observations.

Causal Attribution: Answering the "Why" Question

  • Attribution theory is the study of how we infer the causes of other people's behavior.
  • Internal attribution is the inference that a person's behavior is due to internal characteristics (personality, attitude, etc.).
  • External attribution is the inference that a person's behavior is due to something about the situation they are in (circumstances/situations).
  • Fritz Heider is considered the "father of attribution theory".
  • We use the covariation model to determine if a behavior is internal or external (based on consensus, distinctiveness, and consistency information).

The Fundamental Attribution Error: People as Personality Psychologists

  • The fundamental attribution error is the tendency to overemphasize internal factors when explaining other people's behavior, while underestimating situational influences.
  • We are more likely to explain behaviors with internal factors rather than situational factors
  • The two-steps attribution is the first step that is automatic and involuntary, and the second step is a conscious and effortful adjustment to avoid the fundamental attribution error
  • Perceptual salience (our focus and attention) plays a significant role in the fundamental attribution error.
  • First impressions can have a lingering influence, and our initial impressions often determine future interpretations of a person's behavior.

Self-Serving Attributions

  • These are explanations for our successes that credit internal factors while blaming external factors for failures.
  • These attributions help maintain self-esteem by taking credit for positive outcomes but deflecting responsibility for negative results.
  • This is particularly prevalent in sports and other competitive situations.

Culture and Social Perception

  • Cultural values influence how people perceive others and make attributions about behavior.
  • Cultures differ in their thinking styles (analytic vs. holistic).
  • Analytic thinking styles focus on an individual or object, while holistic thinking styles focus on the object (person) and their surroundings.
  • Cultural influences impact the fundamental attribution error which is stronger in Western cultures where situational effects are often overlooked. The self-serving bias, the tendency for individuals to take credit for success and blame external factors for failure, is also affected by culture.
  • Collectivist cultures emphasize the importance of interdependence and harmony and tend to make more situational attributions than Western cultures, where individual success and independence take precedence.

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Social Perception: How We Come to Understand Other People Chapter 4 PDF

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