Tense from touch: Examining accidental interpersonal touch between consumers
通过三项现场实验，发现消费者间的意外触碰会引发紧张型唤醒，进而影响购物体验，尤其对焦虑女性及有旁观者时效果更强。
Abstract Retail shopping research recognizes that other consumers in a store can impact a consumer's experience. However, the effects of accidental interpersonal touch (AIT) are only beginning to emerge in the literature. The current research presents three field experiments to illuminate the process that drives AIT effects. This research is the first to show that AIT effects are driven by arousal; specifically tense arousal rather than energetic arousal. The findings build on prior research to investigate moderators of the AIT effect—trait anxiety and social visibility. The findings show that AIT effects are amplified for anxious female consumers and situations where store bystanders activate feelings of embarrassment. Theoretical and managerial implications are offered.