Assessed the relationship between self-disclosure and perceived closeness in two training groups of counseling students (N=20) in order to describe the development of group process. Findings indicated increases in amount and quality of self-disclosure and decreases in perceived interpersonal distance, supporting participant development in a small…

Found no single sequence of interaction phases that led to successful or unsuccessful group problem solving. Successful groups, however, tended to begin their discussions by attempting to analyze the problem before searching for solutions; unsuccessful groups immediately began searching for solutions. (PD)

Tested the effect of group member interdependence on supervisory performance ratings. Students (N=72) played the role of supervisors in charge of evaluating members of a three-person work group. Results showed supervisors rated the poor performer higher and the good performers lower when the group was portrayed as highly interdependent. (JAC)

Developed structural equation models of involvement in communication networks in organizations for communication network connectedness and for network integration. A questionnaire was administered to members of a naval training facility (N=125). Models showed acceptable goodness-of-fit for the connectedness model and excellent goodness-of-fit for…

A small-group program established to provide advice and support in areas of stress for freshman students at Indiana University School of Medicine is described. Two objectives of the program were met: increasing intraclass student communication and support and decreasing student anonymity. (MLW)

Proposes that many works of art can be viewed as the products of a group and not just the individual artist. Examines the life history of a group of impressionist painters. Discusses how a group develops over time, group processes, and how the group contributes to artistic development. (RC)

Describes a closely knit neighborhood network of mutual assistance that has developed among older residents, highlighting how the "old old" people help each other daily and how the assistance is taken for granted. Theoretical and practical implications for social integration and independent living are summarized. (Author/JAC)

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)

Explored the effectiveness of an intergroup development organization development (OD) intervention at different stages of an organization's life cycle through four simulated organizations. Results suggest intergroup development interventions can be effective at any life stage, but impacts will be felt in different outcome measures and perceptual…

Moving from an individualized to a group approach and introducing holistic education strategies and exercises into portfolio development classes have had dramatic effects on both students and faculty and lowered student attrition in the assessment process. Sinclair Community College techniques are described and examples are given. (Author/MSE)

Examined the relationship between interpersonal relationships in groups and the attitudinal resolutions of the first six developmental crises of Erikson's theory of personality. Findings indicated that Erikson's attitudinal variables significantly differentiate group roles, and can assign subjects to group role categories with reasonable success.…

Discusses the role of the United Federation of Teachers in the New York City public schools. Analyzes union activity from a perspective that views the union as a conservative, moderating force which seeks to preserve and strengthen the present bureaucratic government of schools. (Author/GC)

Studied how family members utilized the intrafamily interaction more than the interfamily mode. With the interfamily mode, either mothers or fathers tended to dominate. When dominant, mothers talked more to other mothers, while fathers talked mostly to children or fathers. Explored the possible significance of shifting parental dominance patterns.…

Describes a three-level model of a comprehensive approach to group work. Uses the model to analyze the relative merits and profitable applications of prominent group work theories. (Author/MCF)

Describes techniques for teaching interpersonal and group communication skills in the social studies classroom. Activities include group role playing, skill practice trio, and concentric circles, which focus on pairing students to discuss certain topics. The author stresses the necessity for regular feedback forms and sessions. (KC)