Who’s smart? Beliefs about the expression of intelligence in social behavior

Examined social behaviors and interpersonal attributes perceived to be associated with high and low intelligence. 211 college students completed questionnaires concerning the speech style and interpersonal behavior of a hypothetical male or female target individual who was either highly intelligent or not very intelligent. Results show that specific stereotypes existed regarding intelligence, and some of these effects were moderated by the gender of the target. Ss believed high intelligence targets were more likely to use a steady eyegaze and talk with their hands. Also, high intelligence targets were thought to fidget less, speak at a quicker rate, hesitate less while speaking, use less fillers, possess a pleasant speech style, and be clear communicators. Stronger stereotypes regarding walking gait, rate of speech, and posture were held for male targets, as compared to female targets. The belief that intelligent individuals use pauses more during their speech was held more strongly for female targets than male targets.