Performance in Mixed Verbal-Incentive Pairings with and without Feedback

Abstract

150 normal and 150 retarded children performed a marble-dropping task in three experimental arrangements: (1) individually without feedback, (2) in pairs without feedback, and (3) in pairs with feedback. Performance rates and persistence of Ss performing individually or in mixed-incentive pairs under three incentives (reproof, praise, and competition) were compared. A partner's presence increased both rate and persistence by normals; inclusion of feedback further increased their rate but not their persistence. Retardates' rates increased and persistence decreased with a partner's presence; inclusion of feedback decreased their rates and produced varied persistence effects. Comparable incentive effects obtained for individuals and pairs: normals performed faster but with less persistence under reproof than under praise or competition; retardates' rates and persistence were both lower under reproof than under praise or competition.