I personally like the part where you talked about social proof. It is so similar to what we see in movies. Have you watched 'Legally Blonde'? There's a scene where an average-looking guy (I'm saying this only for context) is trying to ask someone out. The girl he's interested in appears more attractive compared to him, and she, along with her friend, seems to be making it difficult for him.

Elle (our heroine), a beautiful and smart blonde, overhears the conversation as she walks by. Without hesitation, she goes up to them, slaps the guy, and pretends she's heartbroken, as if he stood her up. And guess what? This bold move catches the attention of the girl, and they immediately start asking when he'll be free to meet. It looks like, after all, social proof works in some way.