Predictable affective responses are evoked during each phase of a group or organizational problem-solving process. With the needs assessment phase come hope and energy; with goal-setting, confusion and dissatisfaction; with action planning, involvement and accomplishment; with implementation, "stage fright" and joy; with evaluation, pride or…

Investigated the relationship between scores on the Orientation Inventory (Ori) and overt behavior during a small-group problem-solving activity. A special observation system scored the students' behavior in ten-second time-sampling intervals. Ori scores did not correlate even moderately well with the behavior of the subjects during the…

The centrality of interpersonal trust for effective managerial problem solving was illustrated by inducing either a high-trust or a low-trust mental set in experimental groups. Subjects operating in a high-trust environment were significantly more effective in problem solving. (Author)

The problem-solving method most often used in problem-solving groups is likely to create relationships among members of the group that will lead to a win-lose solution. To avoid this, members can list conditions they feel a solution must meet before they can accept it. (Author)

Although consultation models have expanded, research demonstrating the effectiveness of consultation has lagged behind, thus limiting the acceptance of consultation as a method of intervention in schools. This study presents a preventive consultation framework and demonstrates its effectiveness in working with school principals to change the…

Compared performances for male and female groups using three different group problem-solving procedures: unstructured, structured-open, and structured-forced. Results indicated that female groups performed better with the structured-forced procedure than with the structured-open procedure. Male groups performed better with the structured-open…

Investigated use of the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) as an informational input mechanism into the formulation of a Solar Energy Plan. Data collected from a questionnaire indicated that the NGT was rated as being a highly effective mechanism providing input into the solar energy planning process. (Author/RC)

Studied a mining company's survey feedback meeting and its relationship to survey data. Results showed the emotional direction of feedback sessions was positive and problem-centered. Structural factors affected the way groups behaved in feedback meetings, and, depending on the group's survey profile, different processes and themes emerged. (WAS)

Presents both logical and empirical evidence to illustrate that the conventional scoring algorithm for ranking tasks significantly underestimates the initial level of group ability and that Slevin's alternative scoring algorithm significantly overestimates the initial level of ability. Presents a modification of Slevin's algorithm which authors…