unobtrusively as possible. All dyads were observed for a minimum of several minutes without interruption from another individual. ApparatusAll observations were estimated and recorded by the observer.ProcedureAll behavior was observed in such a manner that the individuals did not know they were being watched. All observation was also done in public so as not to violate the individuals’ privacy. The specific variables that were used as a measure of implied interest/attention in conversation, were frequencies of smiling, and eye contact throughout the course of the conversation. All variables were measured by estimation, in terms of relatively frequent, moderate, or low. ResultsResults of the experiment overwhelmingly supported the hypothesis. Particularly in the measurements of smiling. Male-female dyads showed extraordinarily higher frequencies of smiling during conversation than the other dyads. Both same gender dyads showed relatively marginal to moderate frequencies for smiling. Eye contact frequencies were also higher for male-female dyads, though not as overwhelmingly as smiling. In contrast, both same gender dyads showed relatively low frequencies for eye contact. DiscussionBased upon the findings in this experiment, it would appear that male-female dyads do in fact make an attempt to appear overtly interested in the current conversation. This has at least one fairly obvious interpretation. Males and females want to appear interested in what the other has to say, in order to reciprocate attraction. Gazing into each other’s eyes is probably the most overt method of implying that one is paying attention to the other. Furthermore, frequent smiling does not only imply interest in conversation, but an agreeableness as well. It may also readily imply interest of any kind, which for the sakes of this study we shall say is good. The results of the same gender dyads also support this hypothesis. ...
