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Impression formation in informal conversations

Article Abstract:

Communications in informal conversations have nonliteral implications which affect the impressions of the communicator and the person referred to in the communication. Studies suggest that pragmatic implications are considered along with semantic meaning in informal conversational contexts when the goal is impression formation. In addition, communications that violate normative expectations are more likely to increase consideration of pragmatic implications. A broad conceptualization sensitive to the social context of information exchange is necessary to correct the exclusive focus of traditional research on semantic meaning alone.

Psychological aspects, Interpersonal communication, Social perception, Conversation, Impression formation (Psychology), Pragmatics

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A computer network model of human transactive memory

Article Abstract:

Interaction among individuals creates a group memory system that has some vital similarities to a computer network. Effective operation of factors such as directory updating, information allocation, and retrieval coordination results in effectiveness of the group's transactive memory. Directory updating is comparable to learning who holds memories within the group, while information allocation involves assigning memory items to members of the group, leading to progressive differentiation of transactive memory. Retrieval coordination involves organizing the search process to maximize speed and success of retrieval.

Models, Memory, Social networks

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The complexity of thinking across cultures: interactions between culture and situational context

Article Abstract:

Issues discussed concern how culture influences the cognitive complexity of an individual, focusing on contemporary cross-cultural research which suggests that the relationship between cognitive complexity and culture is dependent upon the social context in which the complexity is revealed. The article addresses differences in ways of thinking between East Asian and Western cultures.

Canada, Statistical Data Included, Cross-cultural studies, Cross cultural studies, Culture, Ethnopsychology, Cross-cultural psychology, Cognition and culture

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