The Effects of Perspective-Taking and Egocentrism on Problem Solving in Heterogeneous and Homogeneous Groups

Abstract

The process of interaction among group members and the composition of a group to a large extent determine the effectiveness of group problem solving. Group interaction processes, such as perspective-taking (taking the role of the other) and egocentric-presentation (emphasizing one's own viewpoint), determine the degree to which the group uses the resources available in arriving at a solution; and heterogeneous (diverse viewpoints on the problem) or homogeneous (similar viewpoints on the problem) group composition determines the amount of resources available to apply to the solution of the problem. In this study of 90 male and female nursing students, groups that were either heterogeneous or homogeneous received either perspective-taking or egocentric-presentation instructions. The results demonstrated that perspective-taking groups produced significantly more creative solutions, were characterized as more cooperative and as facilitating effective communication, and were characterized by greater trust, attraction, and satisfaction among group members. No differences were found between heterogeneous and homogeneous groups.