Work

Interdependent Minds: Quantifying the Dynamics of Successful Social Interactions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Social interactions are a ubiquitous part of human life. They are also complex and dynamic, posing a challenge for traditional psychology methods. This paper provides an overview of a dynamical systems approach to the study of social interactions that manages this complexity and enables the quantification of interdependence between people. We also discuss key empirical findings that demonstrate how different forms of interdependence and interaction dynamics shape social outcomes. Finally, we highlight the utility of this approach for advancing theories of social behavior and practical application. By adopting this dynamical systems approach, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the patterns underlying social interactions and test hypotheses about the mechanisms driving human connection and coordination.

Source: Current Directions in Psychological Science

DOI: 10.1177/09637214251323598

Authors: Shannon M. Burns, Lily Tsoi, Emily B. Falk, Sebastian P. H. Speer, Laetitia Mwilambwe-Tshilobo, Diana I. Tamir

Institutions: Pomona College, Caldwell University, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University

Language: English

Topic: Attachment and Relationship Dynamics

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute of Mental Health

Award: G249873985