How Theory of Mind Leads to Positive First Impressions

A common conjecture is that social success relies on "theory of mind"-the everyday skill of imputing mental states to others. We test the hypothesis that individuals with stronger theory of mind skills and motivation garner more positive first impressions because of how they interact with others. Participants included 334 young adults who were paired with a peer for a first-time meeting. Dyads completed a cooperative Lego-building task, which was videotaped and later coded for behavioral manifestations of theory of mind by independent raters. Theory of mind accuracy and motivation were assessed with validated laboratory tasks and a self-report questionnaire, respectively. First impressions were assessed based on partner's ratings of participant likeability, enjoyment of the interaction, and changes in positive affect. Results of actor-partner interdependence mediation models revealed that the associations between theory of mind and first impressions are indirect and mediated through behaviors. Specifically, participants with stronger theory of mind demonstrated greater cognitive sensitivity and pragmatic conversational skills. However, only cognitive sensitivity subsequently predicted more favorable first impressions. This research shows that social-cognitive skills can affect others' social impressions through their behavioral manifestations.