Valerie is interviewing for a job she really wants. However, she also suffers from a high level of social anxiety. During the 30-minute interview, the interviewer twice pauses for several seconds before commenting on what Valerie has said. Based on research findings, how would we expect Valerie to respond to the silence?
A) She enjoys the few moments in which there is no social interaction.
B) She says something to keep the conversation going.
C) She interprets the silence as a sign the interview is not going well.
D) She uses the time to prepare what she wants to say next.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given Valerie's high level of social anxiety, it's likely she would interpret the silence as a negative sign, such as thinking the interview is not going well. People with social anxiety often perceive neutral or ambiguous social cues negatively.

Valerie Is Interviewing for a Job She Really Wants