„‚ CONDITIONS THAT HINDER EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

Figure 1. Construct Formation and Behavioral Response
that they make concerning others. If changes on a conceptual level are made, it could be
expected that alternative behavioral responses would also be considered.
APPLICATION
This model could be applied to the behavior of a group and of individual people in a
group in a variety of ways. In any group there are a number of situations in which a
group member appears to make inferences about another group member that affect his or
her behavior toward that other member. For example, if Tom interacts with another
group member, Kathy, and during this interaction he infers from Kathy’s method of
presentation (behavior) that she is defensive and manipulative, the constructs of
“defensive” and “manipulative” are then involved in shaping Tom’s behavioral response
(Behavioral Response 1) and his interpretation of further input from Kathy. Thus, he
may confront Kathy strongly, saying she is “defensive” and “manipulative.” This
response then results in Sandy’s making inferences, which, in turn, result in assumptions
on her part concerning her relationship to Tom and perhaps even to the other group
members. It is conceivable that Kathy’s inferences could result in cognitive constructs
such as “rejection” or “attack.” If this is the case, it might follow that Kathy would
contemplate quitting the group (Behavioral Response 2). Figure 2 details the example
described.
The “Hold” Procedure
The cyclical nature of the form of interaction described requires that an intervention be
made if alternative behavioral responses are to result. A hold-feedback procedure
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The Pfeiffer Library Volume 6, 2nd Edition. Copyright ©1998 Jossey-Bass/Pfeiffer