Tenderness expression as a signal for trustworthiness
Description
The present research expands on prior research that demonstrated a prototypical facial expression in response to cute, baby-like Kindchenschema targets. This expression, referred to as the tenderness expression, is recognizable to onlookers as a response to such stimuli. Across two studies, the current research examined if there were differences in perceptions of trustworthiness (Studies 1 and 2) and willingness to trust (Study 2) toward individuals displaying the tenderness expression as compared to a Duchenne smile or a neutral expression. Results indicate the tenderness expression is associated with lower ratings of trustworthiness relative to a smile, but no differences among the expressions on willingness to trust. Exploratory analyses demonstrate a replicated pattern of differences on the Big Five Personality Inventory among these three expressions. While these findings were not consistent with a priori hypotheses, this research provides further insight into the social implications associated with this tenderness expression.
Date Created
The date the item was original created (prior to any relationship with the ASU Digital Repositories.)
2019
Agent
- Author (aut): O'Neil, Makenzie J
- Thesis advisor (ths): Shiota, Michelle N.
- Committee member: Kenrick, Douglas T.
- Committee member: Wynne, Clive D.L.
- Committee member: Bradley, Robert H.
- Publisher (pbl): Arizona State University