Inaccurate reporting and inappropriate variables: A reply to Vecchio's (1990) examination of cognitive resource theory.

Abstract

In an article in the Journal of Applied Psychology, Vecchio (1990) purported to test cognitive resource theory (Fiedler, 1986; Fiedler & Garcia, 1987). We present evidence that Vecchio's article seriously misrepresented previous work on cognitive resource theory and also contained several flaws in methodology that call into question his conclusions regarding the validity of cognitive resource theory.

Cognitive resource theory: Issues for specifying a test of the theory.

“…Hence, Fiedler et al's concerns are also my own. I do not accept Fiedler et al's (1992) suggestion that we learn nothing from the results of my analysis. Even studies that are not supportive tell us something that we did not know previously.…”

“…My concern with the issue of independent corroboration of findings lies with the possibility that the tendency for researchers to "file away" failed efforts may differ by degree of identification with a point of view (Rosenthal, 1979). Fiedler et al's (1992) second and third objections center on my encouragement that stress receive a more refined treatment within the theory. Overall, CRT, as formally stated in the 1987 text, seems to focus most directly on interpersonal stress.…”

“…Cognitive Resource Theory Fiedler et al's (1992) last set of objections centers on the appropriateness of the data and measures used to test CRT. Like much of the prior work on CRT, my 1990 study relied on data obtained for testing other leader-related issues.…”

“…

and Gibson (1992) raise a variety of objections to my 1990 study (Vecchio, 1990), which addressed the seven propositions of cognitive resource theory. Their objections, which are essentially based on reservations offered in the article itself, reflect overstatement and are largely unfounded.

…”

Leadership experience and leadership performance.

“…7 " 1 In the final analysis, the critical test is whether previously observed results are found again in other studies, 7-1 See for instance the exchanges on the Contingency Model between Graen, Alvares, Orris, and Martella (1970) and Fiedler (1971) and on Cognitive Resource Theory between Vecchio (1990Vecchio ( ,1992 and Fiedler, Murphy, and Gibson (1992). regardless of whether the data come from secondary analyses or from studies specifically designed to test a particular effect.…”