Mirroring or The chameleon effect describes our human instinct to “empathise and affiliate” with other
people.
We intentionally imitate subtle aspects of each other's mannerisms, postures and facial expressions. We also imitate each other's speech patterns, including inflexions, talking
speed, and speaking
time. Sometimes we even take on the foreign accent of the person to whom we are talking to or thinking about, sometimes leading to embarrassing consequences.
Also referred to as mimicry, it can occur subconsciously. Your spouse or crush
may be overseas in China, and you could find yourself subconsciously travelling nearby to Chinatown,
New York for example, as a way of being with them. Mirroring consists of a wide-ranging spectrum including, but not limited to, dress, gestures, vocal pitch and tone, posture, distance, eye contact, distance, and body orientation.
Research has shown that
people increase mimicry of another person when affiliation goals exist compared to when not meaning if you are engaged in a task with other
people, or working on a collaborative project, it is more likely that mimicry will be displayed. However, the odds are that no one will realize it. Mimicry is often one aspect of being charismatic, being persuasive, building rapport, and having a positive impact on someone. On the other
hand, even if you aren't aware you're mimicking, it can be an expression of great fondness. Repeating their words, catchphrases and accent,
even drinking and eating the same foods as them is a tell tale sign you have
chemistry or strong feelings
