In this project, I analyzed local shoppers at the mall and their reluctance or enthusiasm in entering what is perceived as a child-like arena. What stigma is attached to adults behaving in such a manner? Will the two individuals form some kind of connection? How many questions did it take for the participants to find some commonality? Do they seem happier for having made the attempt? This study will attempt to increase unity through emphasizing our shared interests and establishing humanizing contact with a fellow human being. Additionally, I posit the similarity of train commuters and local shoppers in regards to talking to strangers.
Data Collection and Procedures .
A 90"x 90" inflatable pool with plastic balls was set up for use as a ball pit. The participants were videotaped and recorded for narrative purposes. Participants signed a video/audio release form. Before entering the ball pit, they were recorded and had the participant was asked to identify him/herself, then state and confirm that he/she has understood and signed the release. They additionally stated their age, sex, and race. Many of the balls had conversation starters written on them. (See Appendix A for a list of questions used) Field notes in conjunction with observation of the subjects were written on site. All of the field notes, observations, and taped interviews were turned into computer files. These were used to provide anecdotal documentation and for accuracy of subjects' responses.
Data Generated.
The demographic background of the shoppers entering the Freehold Mall was varied. In total 267 shoppers entered the mall through the entrance near which the ball pit was located over the course of four hours. 34 individuals agreed to participate in the project. Of these 12 were males and 22 were female and ranged in age from 18 - 62. 50% of the participants were white, 12% were African American, 6% were Asian, and 17% were white of Hispanic descent.