The Psychological Dimensions of Context

Abstract

Psychologists acknowledge the powerful influence of context on behavior, and have attempted to identify the dimensions underlying context. Previous work, however, has focused mainly on either relationships or specific situations. In this study we explore the psychological dimensions underlying a wide range of contexts varying in physical locations and the presence or absence of others. Four dimensions emerged, and they were used as a basis to differentiate contexts from each other. One – being in the public eye with the potential to be judged – was the most important dimension that differentiated among contexts. This finding is commensurate with recent empirical work demonstrating unique human abilities in cognition (Tomasello, 1999) and previous theoretical works concerning impression management and the presentation of self in social contexts (Goffman, 1959). We suggest that this dimension is the elemental meaning unit ascribed to contexts by human cultures.