Publication Date
5-1988
Advisor(s) - Committee Chair
Sally Kuhlenschmidt, Samuel McFarland, Daniel Roenker
Degree Program
Department of Psychology
Degree Type
Master of Arts
Abstract
Prior research endorsed two theories of misattribution of interpersonal attraction. Both the two-component theory and the excitation transfer theory demonstrate misattribution and, in combination, enhance the probability of misattribution. However, which theory provides the primary source of misattribution has not been distinguished. The present study asked 60 undergraduate males to rate their interpersonal attraction toward a female in a video recording engaging in self disclosure. A manipulation of different levels of environmental saliency and physiological arousal was used to determine which condition or combination of conditions is most likely to elicit misattribution of interpersonal attraction. An analysis of variance followed by an analysis of covariance was performed on the interpersonal attraction ratings. The covariate of base pulse rate was used to control for individual difference of arousal. The results did not indicate a statistical difference of misattribution under any of the manipulated conditions. The expansion of the arousal conditions is discussed as a prerequisite of misattribution effects. Further research is recommended in the areas of female misattribution of interpersonal attraction and individual cognitive recovery levels.
Disciplines
Applied Behavior Analysis | Cognitive Psychology | Gender and Sexuality | Psychology | Sociology
Recommended Citation
Bowman, William John II, "Misattribution of Interpersonal Attraction: A Case of Mistaken Chemistry or Cognition" (1988). Masters Theses & Specialist Projects. Paper 2068.
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/theses/2068
Included in
Applied Behavior Analysis Commons, Cognitive Psychology Commons, Gender and Sexuality Commons