Rejection as a consequence of perceived similarity.

48 male and 48 female Ss took part in a study of "impression formation," during which they evaluated a "partner" who was presented as either similar or dissimilar to themselves, and who was further presented as either normal or emotionally disturbed. Ss rated the partner's attractiveness, similarity to themselves, and indicated their willingness to interact with him. When the partner was believed to be normal, Ss indicated a greater desire to interact with a similar than a dissimilar partner. However, when the partner was perceived as disturbed, Ss showed greater willingness to interact with a dissimilar partner than with one who was similar to themselves.