Cultural factors also mediate the formation and interpretation of first impressions. Different cultures have varying norms regarding personal space, greeting behaviors, and the display of emotions, which can influence how individuals perceive and are perceived upon initial encounters. For example, cultures that emphasize collectivism may prioritize consensus and group harmony, leading individuals to form impressions based on group affiliations rather than individual characteristics. Understanding these cultural dimensions is critical for navigating multicultural interactions and leveraging diversity to foster positive social perceptions. At its core, social psychology is the scientific study of how individuals perceive themselves in relation to others, how they are influenced by the social context, and how their behaviors are shaped by the presence of others, whether those others are real, imagined, or implied. Allport (1954) defined social psychology as the “scientific attempt to understand and explain how the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of individuals are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of other human beings.” This definition encapsulates three essential components of social psychology: the individual, the social context, and the interaction between the two.

Furthermore, social psychology is distinguished from other branches of psychology by its emphasis on the social environment. While other psychological disciplines such as clinical or developmental psychology may focus on individual differences, social psychology seeks to understand how social situations and group dynamics shape behaviors universally. The field investigates phenomena ranging from interpersonal relationships and group behavior to organizational dynamics and cultural differences.