The Effect of Interpersonal Values on Laboratory Training: An Empirical Investigation

Abstract

The present study investigated the effect of participant and trainer Interpersonal Value Constructs (IVC's) on the behavior and experiences that took place in eight sensitivity training groups. IVC's were defined as: mental categories through which an individual perceives and interprets the desirable and undesirable features of interpersonal behavior. The assessment of IVC's was by a scaled projective technique: the Kilmann Insight Test (KIT). Results suggest that interpersonal values as communicated by mostly nonconscious expressions do influence behavior in a T-group. In particular, depending on the match between trainer and participant IVC's (similarities and/or dissimilarities) the participant is more likely to have 'positive' interpersonal experiences in his group. Also, independent of the trainer, the specific IVC's that a participant applies in his group affects other participants becoming attracted to him and developing respect towards him.

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