Asymmetry of the Trait Inference Process in Impression Formation

Abstract

Symmetry of the trait inference process was studied by having Ss rate how much trait X implied trait Y and how much trait Y implied trait X for each of 36 pairs of traits. Desirability of the traits ranged from very high to very low. The relationship between traits within a pair was varied from consistent to highly inconsistent. Differences between the implication ratings for the two orders of presentation revealed that a definite asymmetry in the strength of the inference existed. The direction of the asymmetry varied as a function of the degree of inconsistency between traits within pairs. The results were discussed in terms of a differential discounting process.