  Empirical studies are inconclusive about the underlying mechanisms that shape
the interrelated dynamics of opinions and interpersonal attraction. There is
strong evidence that others whom are liked have a positive influence on
opinions and similarities induce attraction (homophily). We know less about
"negative" mechanisms concerning whether disliked others induce shifts away
from consensus (negative influence), whether large differences (dissimilarity)
generate distancing, and whether dissimilarities induce disliking
(heterophobia). This study tests discriminating hypotheses about the presence
of positive and negative mechanisms in controlled experiments involving dyadic
interactions. Results confirm the presence of homophily, do not support the
existence of negative social influence, and show a robust positive linear
relationship between opinion distance and opinion shifts. This implies that
contact might provide the largest push towards consensus in case of large
initial differences.
