Abstract
This study investigated the influence of perceived similarity of a fictional character on self-disclosure and interpersonal attraction. In particular, two aspects of similarity were examined: surface aspect and inner aspect. The questionnaire was administered to 216 participants. They first read a description of the fictional character, and then evaluated the degree of their perceived similarity with the fictional character, their interpersonal attraction to it, and their level of expected self-disclosure toward it. The results showed that (a) surface similarity had positive influences on the participants' inner self-disclosure, as well as the trustworthiness and attractiveness of the fictional character; (b) inner similarity had positive influences on the trustworthiness and attractiveness of the fictional character; (c) surface and inner similarity had positive influences on surface and inner self-disclosure to the fictional character, which was mediated by the trustworthiness of the fictional character; and, (d) surface and inner similarity had positive influences on surface self-disclosure to the fictional character, which was mediated by their attractiveness. In the present study, the influences of perceived similarity differed according to the aforementioned aspects. The results suggest that, in counseling, promoting the client's perception of surface similarity may enhance their self-disclosure.
