PSYCHOACTIVE DRUG ACTION AND GROUP INTERACTION PROCESS

Abstract

The effects of a single administration of a phenothiazine drug on patterns of group interaction processes were studied. Seven 3-person natural groups were studied under 4 conditions and in 2 social settings. Only 1 member of the group was administered the drug. Methodological advantages and problems inherent in the design were discussed. Three conceptual frameworks for the study of drug-group process interrelationships were suggested and data pertaining to 2 of these were examined. A decrease of initiation of activity on the part of the drugged member and a consistent decrease of communications addressed to him by the others was noted. The other group members (on placebo) uniformly increased the frequency of their interaction with each other. Minor interactional deficits and behavior redistribution may exert a major impact on the functioning of social groups.