Visual Behavior in Social Interaction

Abstract

Visual behavior appears to provide information at several different communicational levels in social interaction. As a dependent variable, it has been used to measure stable individual and group differences, the regulation of the flow of conversation, and the search for feedback in an interaction. As an independent variable, it has been shown to influence emotional responses and cognitive attributions. Research efforts to specify and understand the functioning of visual behavior at each level are reviewed. An example of a multi-level approach to an area is provided by a survey of the research on visual behavior in relation to interpersonal attraction and involvement. Finally, some speculations about future questions and concerns are presented.