Language Style Matching Predicts Relationship Initiation and Stability

TLDR

Previous relationship research has largely ignored the importance of similarity in how people talk with one another. The study investigated whether similarity in dyads’ use of function words, called language style matching (LSM), predicts outcomes for romantic relationships. Researchers used natural language samples to assess LSM. Greater LSM predicted higher likelihood of mutual romantic interest in speed dating (OR 3.05) and increased likelihood of couples remaining together at a 3‑month follow‑up (OR 1.95), with median‑above groups showing 33.3 % vs 9.1 % desired future contact and 76.7 % vs 53.5 % continued dating.

Abstract

Previous relationship research has largely ignored the importance of similarity in how people talk with one another. Using natural language samples, we investigated whether similarity in dyads’ use of function words, called language style matching (LSM), predicts outcomes for romantic relationships. In Study 1, greater LSM in transcripts of 40 speed dates predicted increased likelihood of mutual romantic interest (odds ratio = 3.05). Overall, 33.3% of pairs with LSM above the median mutually desired future contact, compared with 9.1% of pairs with LSM at or below the median. In Study 2, LSM in 86 couples’ instant messages positively predicted relationship stability at a 3-month follow-up (odds ratio = 1.95). Specifically, 76.7% of couples with LSM greater than the median were still dating at the follow-up, compared with 53.5% of couples with LSM at or below the median. LSM appears to reflect implicit interpersonal processes central to romantic relationships.