Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The chameleon effect refers to our natural tendency to unconsciously mimic others' postures, gestures, facial expressions, and behaviors within social contexts.
Related terms
Nonverbal Communication: This involves communicating without words through gestures, body language, facial expressions etc. It’s like playing charades where you have to convey meaning without speaking.
This is the tendency for people to perform differently when in the presence of others than when alone. It’s like running faster in a race with spectators cheering you on compared to jogging alone at the park.
Implicit Social Influence: This refers to learning about what is considered appropriate behavior through observation of others. It’s like learning not to talk loudly in a library because no one else is doing so.