Science University Research Symposium (SURS)

Mimicry in Relation to Stereotypical Behavior within the College Experience

Publication Date

Fall 11-24-2025

College

College of Sciences & Mathematics

Department

Psychological Science, Department of

SURS Faculty Advisor

Adam Smiley

Presentation Type

Metadata Only

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore whether behaving stereotypically increases mimicry in individuals and whether this impacts an individuals’ perception of the likeability of their social interaction. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: stereotypical responses and non-stereotypical responses. This study was implemented using 40 Belmont students enrolled in introductory Psychology classes who were recruited via the website SONA. Participants were primarily Caucasian and female. Data collection involved an interview between a participant and confederate where the confederate deliberately engaged in behaviors like crossing their legs and touching their face while they discussed their college experiences. Data collection also involved a survey about the agreeableness of their social interaction with the confederate after the interview. The data will focus on whether participants in either condition mimicked the confederate’s behaviors and whether participants in the stereotypical response condition rated their interaction as more agreeable. We anticipated that these assessments would demonstrate that participants in the stereotypical response condition will have higher rates of mimicry compared to the participants in the non-stereotypical response condition. We also anticipate that there will be a significant interaction between the stereotypical response condition and higher ratings of likeability. Further, details on the results and their implications will be presented upon completion of the study.

Comments

Oral Presentation

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