Friendship chemistry: An examination of underlying factors

The work on this paper was funded by a grant from the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities (5 P20 MD 002722) to California State University, San Bernardino, and a Faculty Professional Development grant from the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs at California State University, San Bernardino.

Abstract

Interpersonal chemistry refers to a connection between two individuals that exists upon first meeting. The goal of the current study is to identify beliefs about the underlying components of friendship chemistry. Individuals respond to an online Friendship Chemistry Questionnaire containing items that are derived from interdependence theory and the friendship formation literature. Participants are randomly divided into two subsamples. A principal axis factor analysis with promax rotation is performed on subsample 1 and produces five factors: reciprocal candor, mutual interest, personableness, similarity, and physical attraction. A confirmatory factor analysis is conducted using subsample 2 and provides support for the 5-factor model. Participants with agreeable, open, and conscientious personalities more commonly report experiencing friendship chemistry, as do those who are female, young, and European/white. Responses from participants who have never experienced chemistry are qualitatively analyzed. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.

Keywords:

• Factor analysis
• Friendship formation
• Interpersonal chemistry
• Relationship initiation

Notes

The work on this paper was funded by a grant from the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities (5 P20 MD 002722) to California State University, San Bernardino, and a Faculty Professional Development grant from the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs at California State University, San Bernardino.

1 Address: Department of Psychology, California State University, San Bernardino, 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA. Tel.: [phone].

2 Address: Department of Psychology, California State University, San Bernardino, 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA. Tel.: [phone].