Explored the degree to which clinicians attributed the client's problems to personality v situational factors. Results supported the hypothesis that previous tentative diagnoses result in personality-based attributions. A recency effect suggested that personality attributions may be lessened by presenting situational information after hearing the…

Husbands of wives with (n=22) or without (n=23) history of depressive disorder indicated their attributions about and affective reactions to real and hypothetical positive and negative events occurring to their wives, rated their wives on personality traits, and reported their own marital satisfaction. Depressed wives were rated more negatively on…

The "Barnum effect" is the phenomenon whereby people willingly give their approval and acceptance of personality interpretations purportedly derived from the results of assessment procedures. The research generated over the last 25 years relative to this acceptance phenomenon is reviewed. (Author)

Locus of control subjects' incorrect responses by frustrating or nonfrustrating confederates were punished by electric shock. Data indicated increased aggression after frustration by externals and less aggression by internals. Results indicate aggression is cognitively regulated by a personality-related belief in uncontrollability; the less the…

Used classification scheme developed by Marlatt and Gordon (1980) to categorize the highly tempting situations of 596 participants in smoking cessation programs. Relapsers had significantly more situations characterized by withdrawal symptoms and negative affect and fewer situations involving cigarette cues than did temporary lapsers and…