Investigated reliability and dimensionality of Bales's Interpersonal Rating Forms (IRF) using volunteer subjects (N=266) enrolled in undergraduate communications course. Results documented shortcomings of IRF as a measuring instrument finding the subscales neither reliable nor dimensionally structured; only 2 of 18 items in each subscale are…

Discusses a study designed to determine the influences of reticent members on group interaction. (MH)

Defines interpersonal communicative behavior as behavior serving to increase immediate feelings of satisfaction, and investigates the relationships between this behavior and self-concepts. (MH)

This branching programmed instructional workbook focuses on how people behave when they hear messages. Included are materials on audience/receiver behavior and a self-instructional supplement to materials that are a part of other communication studies. Drawings and diagrams illustrate the discussions of self-analysis, selection of audiences and…

Analyzed 10 interaction dimensions of group behavior and three emotional atmosphere categories among old and young participants in 12 "support-discussion" groups. Results showed significant differences with respect to frequencies of boundary, self-disclosure, and support behaviors. In addition, the young showed signs of boredom more frequently.…

Analyzed contrasting assumptions of three theoretical orientations used to explain mixed-sex small group interaction through observation of two mixed-sex, human relations training groups of undergraduate students (N=45). Found no support for sex-role differentiation or adaptation orientations but did find support for role-status expectation…

Examines the function of conflict in the process of achieving group consensus. Available from: Human Communication Research, Robert L. Cox, Executive Secretary, International Communication Association, Box 8563 University Station, Austin, Texas 78712. Telephone: 512-471-4821. Subscription Rates: institutional or non-members, $15.00 per year;…

The relationship between cognitive style (field independence/field dependence), proctor/student interactions, and achievement of undergraduate students in a Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) course was studied. Field dependence/independence was measured using the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT), which measures ability to identify a…

To assess whether communication behaviors differ between high and low consensus groups, a study considered the comparative interaction of the first meetings of high and low consensus groups, the first and final meetings of high consensus groups, and the first and final meetings of low consensus groups. Subjects, 84 students in a small group…

Analyses in this study revealed trends that bear some similarity to other coorientation research on the variables of agreement, accuracy, and congruency between individual members and their group, but the small amount of variance accounted for by time spent communicating suggests a need for measurement revisions in further research. (PD)

Analyzed the complete interaction of high and low consensus groups in a basic small group course. Interaction analysis indicated that both the relational and content levels of communication are significantly different for high versus low consensus groups. The conclusion that increased feedback leads to decision satisfaction was confirmed. (JAC)

The effects of seating distance and orientation on small-group behavior were investigated in male and female four-person groups. The nonfacing orientation produced more frequent self-manipulative behaviors and postural adjustments and longer pauses than the facing orientation. Processes underlying orientation effects and their potential…

This study examined the effects of discounting behavior ("put downs") on the quantity and quality of ideas produced by a group and on the group climate. Subjects were 52 college students divided into 8 groups. Groups in which discounting occurred produced significantly fewer ideas, and the emotional response to the group process was…