The effect of changing background images during repeated exposure on interpersonal evaluations

Abstract

In this study, we examine the effects of changing the indoor background image during repeated exposure on evaluations of the image individual. More specifically, we examined whether meeting an individual at the same place each time increases familiarity and thus enhances evaluations of the individual or whether meeting in different places each time adds a degree of novelty to the familiarity and, thus, enhances evaluations. In two experiments, combinations of the indoor background and the individual were manipulated, such that either the same or a different background was presented during repeated presentations of the individual. In Experiment 1, we presented a neutral expression either 3, 6, or 9 times and, in Experiment 2, a smiling face either 3, 6, 9, or 12 times. The results indicate that liking ratings for the individual increased more in the 3-changes condition. We assume that this increase in liking reflects an additional degree of novelty to familiarity due to the background changes. In contrast, feelings of security increased with the increased exposures for both conditions, which indicates that background had little effect on feelings of security.