How and Why People Synchronize: An Integrated Perspective

Abstract

Academic Abstract

Interpersonal synchrony, the alignment of behavior and/or physiology during interactions, is a pervasive phenomenon observed in diverse social contexts. Here we synthesize across contexts and behaviors to classify the different forms and functions of synchrony. We provide a concise framework for classifying the manifold forms of synchrony along six dimensions: periodicity, discreteness, spatial similarity, directionality, leader–follower dynamics, and observability. We also distill the various proposed functions of interpersonal synchrony into four interconnected functions: reducing complexity and improving understanding, accomplishing joint tasks, strengthening social connection, and influencing partners’ behavior. These functions derive from first principles, emerge from each other, and are accomplished by some forms of synchrony more than others. Effective synchrony flexibly adapts to social goals and more synchrony is not always better. Our synthesis offers a shared framework and language for the field, allowing for better cross-context and cross-behavior comparisons, generating new hypotheses, and highlighting future research directions.

Public Abstract

People often match their behavior and physiology when they interact with each other. Their heart rates may become more similar, they may imitate each other’s facial expressions, or they may fall into step while walking together. This interpersonal synchrony happens in various social situations and relationship types. We propose a shared language and framework for describing the many forms synchrony can take and the functions it can serve. First, we identify six ways the form of synchrony can vary, for instance, whether the behavior is repetitive and rhythmic or unpredictable in its timing, and whether one partner is following the other’s lead or they are taking turns leading. Second, we identify four functions synchrony serves: synchrony makes an interaction less complicated, helps people accomplish tasks together, strengthens their social connection, and allows them to influence each other’s behavior. Our synthesis generates new ideas for research and highlights promising future directions.