Expression of Hostility as a Function of an Encounter Group Experience

Abstract

On the basis of previous research it was hypothesized that Ss undergoing an encounter group experience would show a decrease in covert expression of hostility and a corresponding increase in overt expression of hostility as measured by Bendig's scales of hostility. An experimental group ( N = 24) participated in 10 encounter group exercises while a control group ( N = 24) similar in terms of age, sex, and educational background, did not undergo the exercises. No significant difference was found between experimental and control groups' scores on the Bendig scales prior to, or upon completion of the series of encounter exercises for personal growth.

Controlled studies of the outcome of sensitivity training.

“…Jeffers (1972) found a change away from conformity and toward rebelliousness on the Comrey personality scales among 10 groups in a 24-hour marathon encounter. No change is reported on anomie (Rubin, 1967a, ego strength (Adams, 1970), Bendig's scales of overt and covert hostility (Uhes, 1971), the constructive personality change index (Solomon et al, 1968), the choice dilemma questionnaire of Kogan and Wallach (Poe, 1972), the Eysenck Personality Inventory (Insel & Moos, 1972); Thematic Apperception Test, Machiavellianism, and the Guilford-Zimmerman Temperament Survey (Kernan, 1964). Pollack and Stanley (1971) predicted increases in ability to confront aggressive or sexual stimuli.…”