Subjects in two consciousness-raising groups were objectively assessed to determine whether changes relating to self-reported profeminist attitudes and behaviors and relating to self-esteem and social desirability would occur. Twenty-two female undergraduates were randomly assigned to either a 16hour marathon group format or a 2-hour, 8-week time-spaced group format. Twelve additional females who took objective measures at the same time as one of the two groups acted as no-treatment control subjects. All experimental subjects significantly shifted toward more self-reported profeminist attitudes and behaviors both at posttesting and at follow-up. The two personality measures did not reveal any lasting changes. When compared with each other, subjects in the two time formats did not evidence any significant differences. When compared with control subjects, time-spaced subjects reported significantly more profeminist behavioral changes and an increase in self-esteem. Marathon subjects were significantly different from controls on the profeminist attitude measure. The purpose for which consciousnessraising groups have been formed was empirically supported by desired changes reported by subjects in relation to more profeminist attitudes and behaviors. Whether participation in consciousness-raising groups produces increases in self-esteem and decreases in the need for social approval is in need of further assessment.
WILL DRENNEN is a tough-mmded doubting Thomas, yet an intuitive tender-mmded mystic whose mterests range from structured self-modification research, to expenential gestalt awareness, to mterpersonal exploration, to the paranormal, and on to cosmic communion. He received his doctorate from Florida State m 1962, has been on the staffs of a VA Hospital and a Medical School, but mamly has taught m the area of applied psychology at the University of South Carolina. He is a seeker of truth within and without who would like to have a little lovmg fun along the way home. He feels that the earth's drama reflects the forces of selfishness and unawareness opposed to compassion and wisdom-forces which are mamfest in encounter
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