Personality, problem solving, and the Einstellung effect.

Abstract

2 hypotheses were raised in this experiment: (a) Ss who show antiscientific or nondynamic tendencies in their perceptions of behavior are more subject to the Einstellung effect; and (b) when achievement anxiety is aroused this relationship is more pronounced. 2 groups of 31 Ss each were given 2 Einstellung-test problem series. For one group standard testing conditions were employed; for the other, acheivement anxiety was aroused. Ss were evaluated for dynamic-nondynamic perceptions of others, a measure derived from a modification of Kelly''s Role Construct Repertory Test. This measure was not found to be related to Einstellung-test scores, but a significant relationship to achievement anxiety was obtained.