A study finds hugs can improve first impressions among strangers
A study has found that greeting strangers with a hug rather than a handshake may make them like you more. This research suggests that physical touch plays a significant role in forming positive first impressions, going beyond just the initial ice-breaking moment.
Researchers from UC San Diego had 18 team members greet 330 strangers using one of three methods: a hug, handshake, or no physical contact. The researchers measured how much the strangers liked them by asking if they'd like to see holiday photos – 76% of those who received a hug agreed, compared to just 52% of those who didn't receive physical contact. Professor Karen Dobkins explained that humans are evolutionarily programmed to feel safe and secure with human touch, which can create warm, positive feelings towards the person initiating contact.
- Hugging strangers led to 76% agreement to view photos versus 52% without hugs
- Study involved 330 strangers and tested three greeting types
- Human touch makes people feel safe and creates positive impressions
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Greeting a stranger with a hug rather than a handshake could make them like you more, study claims”.