Recurrent patterns of social interaction

Our capacity to predict the behaviors and reactions of those around us -manifested as recurring behavioral and interactional patterns - establishes the foundation for a meaningful daily life. It also serves as a backdrop against which unexpected social phenomena can be interpreted. This chapter explores the research processes aimed at identifying these recurring patterns of interaction. Initially, it describes the methodologies associated with qualitative interaction analysis, which involves compiling collections of naturally occurring interaction segments. The focus then shifts to the potential of quantifying these patterns. Subsequently, the chapter illustrates how experimental elicitation of recurrent patterns enables causal inferences by eliminating confounding factors. The chapter concludes by outlining future directions, including the use of larger datasets for more nuanced distinctions between actions, the exploration of individual differences in the implementation and interpretation of social actions, and the increasing role of specialized software, including artificial intelligence, in the coding of behaviors.