Enhancing the understanding of suspicion development across time: two studies on human versus virtual teammates, goal type, impulsivity, and contrast effects

In two experimental studies in a virtual context, we explored the development of an individual’s state suspicion across time. Based on a multi-stage theory of state suspicion, we investigated several types of contextual cues that might influence suspicion (discrepancies from expectation; system characteristics of teammates; goal type). We also considered an individual difference moderator/filter on the effect of suspicion-inducing cues (i.e. participant impulsivity). We hypothesised and found support for (i) the positive effect of discrepancies on levels of suspicion, (ii) the moderating influence of goal type (social or performance) on suspicion, (iii) the moderating influence of impulsivity on levels of suspicion, and (iv) the existence of a contrast effect across time (when discrepancy cues related to suspicion were introduced and then removed). Based on the findings across two studies, future research needs (both theoretical and applied) are outlined.