Confidence (or lack of) is the main theme I derive from this experiment.
In my life, I like to sit and observe the most confident person within a particular group. The most confident person(s) consciously (sometimes subconsciously) prescribe themselves as being the most confident in the group.
The other people in the group automatically place themselves on a 'confidence ladder' unique to this group.
In my opinion, people subjectivly believe that everyone has somehow received a printout of this ladder and conform to the restraints it imposes. If at any moment a person who puts themselves lower on the ladder wishes to say or do something, they mentally check to see if the proposed behaviour will conform to their 'imaginary ladder'. People who place themselves at the top of this ladder will do or say anything they like, hence further reinforcing their (self-imposed) dominant position.
Being a generally unconfident person, I know that on certain occasions I have carried out a pre-meditated plan to exude confidence. When I have done this, I radiate confidence and the group conforms to my plan. Amazing. Surely simple psychology, but amazingly effective.
Unfortunately there are areas in my life e.g. my workplace, where I have imposed a certain negative 'confidence ladder' upon myself. So, by originally placing myself low on this ladder when I began working, I find it extremely difficult to snap out of it and exhibit this fresh, free and fragrant person I wish to be in this area. However, there are areas where I am certain large groups of people place me at the top of the group ladder because I acted confidently from day 1. I've learnt a lot from these types of experiences.
I don't study psychology formally, but would be interested to know what formal theories there are relating to this kind of situation.
