Attribute Generality and the Inference Process in Impression Formation

Abstract

This research focused on the role of general attributes (those used by an observer to characterize many persons) in the at tribute inference process. Descriptions of eight acquaintances ob tained from 66 subjects were coded such that the generality of each attribute employed by a subject could be determined. Each subject made inferences based on his selected general and specific attri butes, and then rated the original and inferred attributes on a set of bipolar adjective scales. It was found that inferences based on a general attribute were more similar in meaning to the original at tribute than were inferences based on a specific attribute. Impli cations of this finding for a reconceptualization of the impression formation process were discussed.