Human affection exchange: IV. Vocalic predictors of perceived affection in initial interactions

This investigation examines the relationship between speakers' vocal characteristics and receivers' and observers' perceptions of speakers' affectionate intentions toward receivers in initial interactions. Hypotheses drawn from affection exchange theory were tested in an experimental procedure involving 48 triads of previously unacquainted young adults. Results revealed that (1) speakers' fundamental frequency was linearly related to observers' perceptions of speakers' affection level; (2) speakers' variation in fundamental frequency was linearly related to receivers’ and observers' perceptions of speakers' affection level; (3) speakers' vocal intensity was unrelated to perceptions of their affection level; and, (4) speakers' fundamental frequency interacted with speakers' sex to influence receivers' perceptions of speakers' affection level.