Affinity Through Instant Messaging: An Exploration Of Initial Interactions

Abstract

This thesis sought to extend work on relationship initiation in an online setting by examining the initial interaction of cross-sex dyads. Sixty male-female dyads interacted for 20 minutes with instructions to find out enough information to determine if they would interact with their partner again. Results indicated that individuals who are more accurate at determining when their partner showed liking had partners that reported more liking towards those individuals and perceived more liking by those individuals. Liking is also increased when trust is established. Moreover, liking is increased when there is little disliking shown and partners share more intimate disclosures. Future interactions are desired when more flirting and greater appropriateness are perceived. Implications for seeking, testing, and signaling affinity are presented.