Dyadic behavior of self-, interaction-, and task-oriented subjects in a test situation.

Abstract

15 self-oriented, 15 interaction-oriented, and 15 task-oriented upper undergraduates took 3 midterm examinations. Each time after responding alone, they met with a partner to discuss the answers, then took the test again. Responses and changes of response of S and partner yielded objective indexes of accuracy, stability, coalescence, successful leadership, and profitability of the discussion. Attitudes toward the discussion were also collected. Each S met with a partner of each other orientation in a counterbalanced order. Interaction-oriented Ss coalesced less, caused partners to experience more conflict, allowed partners to be less successful as leaders, caused partners to participate less, and to make then feel less responsible. Results are consistent with performance of interaction-oriented Ss in other important work situations. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)