While playing a game of strategy, nineteen groups of two black and two white seventh and eighth grade boys, otherwise similar, were systematically observed by black and white observers both, using a schedule derived from status characteristic theory. (JM)

It is proposed that changes in the classroom aimed at effective teaching be based on analysis, theory, and the gathering of data from systematic and controlled observational surveys, laboratory studies and controlled field experiments in the classroom. (Author/JB)

Reports studies of bi-racial groups of schoolboys working on tasks of cooperative problem-solving in an integrated setting, designed to determine if status can be based on contributions to the task in terms of motivation and competence regardless of race. (JM)

This experiment attempted to alter the effects of race as a diffuse status characteristic. Black subjects were given instructions meant to induce "high competence" on a task performed with white subjects. All subjects were seventh and eighth graders who did not know each other prior to the experiment. Each group comprised two white and…

The experiments here reported represent attempts to produce "equal status interaction" in four-man groups of junior high school boys, two of whom are white and two black. The theory is that equality is not a consequence of interracial task performance. Rather, it is likely that generally held beliefs about the differential competence of…

In this study, the status ordering of a four-man group working on a task requiring discussion and decision was predicted on the basis of status characteristic theory. Two of the group members were white; two were black. They were matched as to age, height, and also on a combined index of socioeconomic status and attitude toward school. The…

Group participation by Israeli youth is examined in light of the Theory of Status Characteristics and Expectation States. This theory maintains that social and/or group status influences expectations of competence and triggers self-fulfilling prophecies of performance. An experiment designed to prevent unwanted dominance of high status…