8 - Interpersonal perception

Abstract

Interpersonal perception has been studied using the social relations model (SRM) during the past 30 years, and Kenny's (1994) book on this topic provides an exhaustive review and meta-analysis of basic phenomena. One aim of this chapter is to consider the similarities and differences in Cronbach's (1955, 1958) and Kenny's componential approaches to interpersonal perception. In particular, I show how the SRM was a response to and an extension of Cronbach's first statistical critique of interpersonal perception in the mid-20th century. A second aim is to evaluate perceiver, target, and relationship variance components in interpersonal perception and to consider the broader theoretical implications given what is known. A third aim is to introduce Cronbach's second critique of interpersonal perception research. This theoretical critique was presented by Professor Cronbach in 1996 in personal communication and has methodological implications. Because interpersonal perception is the most widely studied phenomenon using the SRM, a common misconception is that this is the sole focus of the model. This book reveals the breadth of SRM research.