Pink noise linked to more enjoyable conversations, study finds
Dartmouth research suggests balance between chaos and repetition is key to satisfying chats
Scientists have identified a signature of a satisfying conversation: pink noise, a middle ground between disjointed chatter and repetitive mirroring. In a study published in Science Advances, researchers at Dartmouth College analysed more than 1,000 conversations between strangers and found that conversations with more pink noise were enjoyed more, and that people felt a stronger sense of connection. The effect also held for conversations between friends and predicted which speed-dating pairs went on second dates.