Tests the assumption that the aspects of a group's behavior that lead to judgments of quality probably are equally important and assesses the theoretical import of a discovery indicating differences in the relative impact of different variables on perceptions of the quality of decision making discussions. (MH)

Suggests that usurpation of control by a leader causes low-status group members to become dissatisfied with participation, but perceived lack of support causes dissatisfaction with the level of goal attainment. Tables and bibliography. (RW)

Two models for research on teacher thinking are discussed: the decision-making model and the information-processing model. Research on teaching guided by the decision-making model focuses upon explaining and understanding deliberate teacher activity and is deemed more appropriate for situations in which the teacher has sufficient time and…

A two-tiered model of group influences on individual choice behavior is developed and evidence relevant to the model is reviewed in this paper. The model consists of two parts: a model of individual choice, and models of group influence on components of the individual choice model. The model of individual choice is based on the…

Deals with a field experiment conducted to explore the relationship between two determinants of helpfulness and predecisional communication behavior and discusses findings in terms of Schwartz's model of normative behavior. (MH)

Supports the hypothesis that interaction processes connected with the Valence Distribution Model mediated the effect of decision schemes on group decisions. Substantiates the assumptions that interaction is a crucial factor in group decision making. Although input conditions may also have an impact on decision outcomes, they are mediated by…

Twelve groups of five to seven college students each were randomly formed and assigned one of two decision-making tasks as part of a study of the relational, or control, dimension of interpersonal communication. Group discussions were recorded and transcribed for analysis of act, interact, and double interact patterns. Results indicated…

Offers support for the idea that dissonance is aroused only if the consequences of a discrepant action are known in advance and responsibility freely assumed. Graphs, tables, and bibliography. (RW)

The author trained confederates to exhibit either opinionated, moderately opinionated, or unopinionated styles of leadership, then assigned them to discussion groups. Each group was assigned a specific topic and instructed to decide on a specific policy toward the topic. They were also asked to make ratings that measured four other attitudes: the…