First impressions aren't always what they seem... or are they? According to a study at McGill University, when it comes to a first date, they usually are.
The study, titled "Are some first dates easier to read than others? The role of target well-being in distinctively accurate first impressions," used 372 participants in a series of three-minute "speed-dating" interactions to rate one another's personalities.
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Some people are open books, with their distinctive personalities being accurately perceived after a brief interaction, whereas others are harder to read.
Lauren Gazzard Kerr, James Borenstein-Laurie, and Lauren J. Human
Each participant, as well as someone close to them who could weigh in on their personality, had filled out their own form on their own personality beforehand.
Overall, most people were able to accurately decipher the other person's personality traits in such a short amount of time.
That said, according to the researchers, some people are a lot easier to "read" than others, which may be linked to self-esteem.
"Some people are open books whose distinctive personalities can be accurately perceived after a brief interaction, whereas others are harder to read,” says Lauren Gazzard Kerr.
"Strikingly, people who report higher well-being, self-esteem, and satisfaction with life tend to make the task easier."
Previous studies found strong evidence of being able to pick up on other people's personality traits in more casual settings, such as in class or among friends.
So next time you think you're not making an impression, think again!
