Showing papers on "Interpersonal communication published in 1999"

Communication and Trust in Global Virtual Teams

Abstract: This paper explores the challenges of creating and maintaining trust in a global virtual team whose members transcend time, space, and culture. The challenges are highlighted by integrating recent literature on work teams, computer-mediated communication groups, cross-cultural communication, and interpersonal and organizational trust. To explore these challenges empirically, we report on a series of descriptive case studies on global virtual teams whose members were separated by location and culture, were challenged by a common collaborative project, and for whom the only economically and practically viable communication medium was asynchronous and synchronous computer-mediated communication. The results suggest that global virtual teams may experience a form of "swift" trust, but such trust appears to be very fragile and temporal. The study raises a number of issues to be explored and debated by future research. Pragmatically, the study describes communication behaviors that might facilitate trust in global virtual teams.

Community, Communication, and Participation: The Role of Mass Media and Interpersonal Discussion in Local Political Participation

Abstract: This study examines the role of community integration and mass and interpersonal communication in predicting two types of local political participation; more conventional, "institutionalized" acts of participation and less traditional acts of participating and speaking out in a forum. An analysis of survey data (N = 389) showed a strong role of newspaper readership and a somewhat lower impact of interpersonal discussion on institutionalized participation. Different patterns emerged for participation in a civic forum, with interpersonal discussion having the strongest impact of the three communication variables. Television news use had no direct impact on either type of participation, but it did have a modest indirect impact on institutionalized participation. The data also showed direct effects of dimensions of community integration for participation in a forum only. Orientations toward the larger community rather than the local neighborhood were positively related to participating in a civic forum.

The effects of interpersonal trust on work group performance.

Abstract: This study explored 2 questions: Does the level of trust within a group affect group performance? If so, how does this relationship operate? An experimental method was used to examine 2 roles through which interpersonal trust could affect group performance: a main effect and a moderating effect. The data do not support the main effect that has dominated the literature on interpersonal trust. The data do support the moderating role: Trust seems to influence how motivation is converted into work group processes and performance. On the basis of these findings, it is suggested that trust may be best understood as a construct that influences group performance indirectly by channeling group members' energy toward reaching alternative goals.

The Developing Mind: Toward a Neurobiology of Interpersonal Experience.

Abstract: Preface. Introduction: Mind, Brain, and Experience. Memory. Attachment. Emotion. Representations: Modes of Processing and the Construction of Reality. States of Mind: Cohesion, Subjective Experience, and Complex Systems. Self-Regulation. Interpersonal Connection. Integration.

Process consultation revisited : building the helping relationship

Abstract: I. PROCESS CONSULTATION DEFINED. 1. What is Process Consultation? 2. The Psycho-Dynamics of the Helping Relationship. 3. Active Inquiry and Listening as Status Equilibrating Processes. 4. The Concept of "Client." II. DECIPHERING HIDDEN FORCES AND PROCESSES. 5. Intra-Psychic Processes: ORJI. 6. Face to Face Dynamics: Cultural Rules on Interaction and Communication. III. INTERVENTION IN THE SERVICE OF LEARNING. 7. Communication and Deliberate Feedback. 8. Facilitative Process Interventions. I. Task Processes in Groups 9. Facilitative Process Interventions. II. INTERPERSONAL PROCESSES. 10. Facilitative Process Interventions. III. DIALOGUE. IV. PROCESS CONSULTATION IN ACTION. 11. Consultation in Action: Entry, Settings, Methods and the Psychological Contract. 12. Process Consultation and the Helping Relationship in Perspective.

THE PSYCHOLOGICAL UNDERPINNINGS OF DEMOCRACY: A Selective Review of Research on Political Tolerance, Interpersonal Trust, and Social Capital

Abstract: ▪ Abstract This chapter explores two psychological orientations that support democratic governance. First, robust democracies require citizens to tolerate others' efforts to participate in politics, even if they promote unpopular views. Research shows that citizens' political tolerance is influenced strongly by the depth of their commitment to democratic values, by their personality, and by the degree to which they perceive others as threatening. Cross-national research generalizes many of these findings to other countries. Second, robust democracies need citizens who will participate in politics. Almond and Verba's cross-national research shows that interpersonal trust and other features of political culture enhance citizen involvement in politics. Inglehart expanded the political culture framework in his work on post-materialism, interpersonal trust, life satisfaction, and cognitive mobilization. Recent theories of social capital also emphasize the role of generalized interpersonal trust, membership in ...

The interactional nature of depression: Advances in interpersonal approaches.

Abstract: On the Interpersonal Nature of Depression - Overview and Synthesis The Emergence of an Interpersonal Approach to Depression Social Context and Depression - an Integrative Stress and Coping Framework Interpersonal and Cognitive Pathways into the Origins of Attributional Style - a Developmental Perspective Loneliness, Shyness and Depression - the Aetiology and Interrelationships of Everyday Problems in Living Schematic and Interpersonal Conceptualizations of Depression - an Integration Vulnerable Self-Esteem and Social Processes in Depression - Toward an Interpersonal Model of Self-Esteem Regulation Striving for Confirmation - the Role of Self-Verification in Depression Silencing the Self - Inner Dialogues and Outer Realities Sociophysiology and Depression Marital Discord and Depression - Exploring the Potential of Attachment Theory to Guide Integrative Clinical Intervention Depressed Parents and Family Functioning - Interpersonal Effects and Children's Functioning and Development A Social-Cognitive Model of Interpersonal Processes in Depression Thinking Interactionally About Depression - a Radical Restatement.

Interpersonal trust, political trust and non‐institutionalised political participation in Western Europe

Abstract: Trust is a core concept in the continuing political science discourse on social capital and its meaning for democracy. In this article, the relationship between interpersonal trust, trust in political institutions and non‐institutionalised legal political participation is analysed based on data from the Eurobarometer surveys and the European/World Values Studies. The statistical relationship between interpersonal trust and political trust in nine European countries is found to be small, though generally positive. Thus, interpersonal trust cannot be regarded as an important antecedent or consequence of political trust. A different picture emerges regarding the relationship between political trust and legal non‐institutionalised participation: the lower political trust the higher the probability of engaging in direct action. Finally, a positive relationship between interpersonal trust and direct action is found, thereby pointing to trust as a precondition or consequence of non‐institutionalised political in...

Distinguishing contextual performance from task performance for managerial jobs.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to extend previous research on the contextual nd task performance distinction to managerial jobs. It was hypothesized that, unlike results for nonmanagerial work, the job dedication facet of contextual performance would contribute uniquely to overall managerial performance. The interpersonal facilitation facet of contextual performance was expected to be redundant with leadership task performance and therefore not to make a unique contribution. A multitrait-multirater correlation matrix was developed on the basis of meta-analysis. Structural equation modeling results generally supported the hypotheses, although there was some evidence of a unique contribution by interpersonal facilitation. Results also suggested that peers paid more attention to interpersonal facilitation when making overall performance ratings, whereas supervisors paid more attention to task performance.

Interpersonal processes: The interplay of cognitive, motivational, and behavioral activities in social interaction.

Abstract: This analytic review is concerned with the interpersonal processes, and the characteristics of situations and persons that influence them, that lead to the confirmation and disconfirmation of expectations in the course of social interaction. We examine the steps in the chain of events by which the expectations of one person guide and direct the dynamics of social interaction such that the behavior of the target of those expectations comes to confirm or disconfirm those expectations. We further inquire into the motivational and structural foundations of confirmation and disconfirmation in social interaction, using these inquiries to address frequently asked, but rarely answered, questions about expectations and social interaction. Finally, we argue that investigations of expectations in social interaction provide a paradigm for more general theoretical and empirical considerations of interpersonal processes and social relationships.

Attentional Biases for Facial Expressions in Social Phobia: The Face-in-the-Crowd Paradigm

Abstract: The present study examines the attentional bias hypothesis for individuals with generalised social phobia (GSPs). Socially phobic individuals were hypothesised to exhibit attentional bias towards threat stimuli relevant to interpersonal situations. This hypothesis was tested using the face-in-the-crowd paradigm. GSPs and nonanxious controls (NACs) detected an angry, happy, neutral, or disgust target face in a crowd of 12 distracter photographs. Results indicated that, compared to NACs, GSPs exhibited greater attentional biases for angry than for happy faces in a neutral crowd. GSPs were more slowed down in their performance by happy and angry versus neutral distracters; NACs did not exhibit such sensitivity to distracter type. Finally, GSPs were faster in detecting anger than disgust expressions; NACs detected both types of faces equally quickly. Implications of these findings for the maintenance of social phobia are discussed.

Teenage partners' communication about sexual risk and condom use: the importance of parent-teenager discussions.

Abstract: Results: Parent-teenager discussions about sexuality and sexual risk were associated with an increased likelihood of teenager-partner discussions about sexual risk and of teenagers’ condom use, but only if parents were open, skilled and comfortable in having those discussions. Teenagers’ communication with their partner about sexual risk also was associated with greater condom use, but the relationship between parent-teenager communication and teenagers’ condom use was independent of this association. Conclusions: The influence on teenagers of parent-teenager discussions about sexuality and sexual risk depends on both what parents say and how they say it. Programs that foster parentteenager communication about sexuality and sexual risk must emphasize both of these aspects.

The effects of sense of belonging, social support, conflict, and loneliness on depression.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A number of interpersonal phenomena have been linked to depression, including sense of belonging, social support, conflict, and loneliness. OBJECTIVES: To examine the effects of the interpersonal phenomena of sense of belonging, social support, loneliness, and conflict on depression, and to describe the predictive value of sense of belonging for depression in the context of other interpersonal phenomenon. METHOD: A sample of clients with major depressive disorder and students in a midwestern community college participated in the study by completing questionnaires. RESULTS: Path analysis showed significant direct paths as postulated, with 64% of the variance of depression explained by the variables in the model. Social support had only an indirect effect on depression, and this finding supported the buffer theory of social support. Sense of belonging was a better predictor of depression. CONCLUSIONS: The study findings emphasize the importance of relationship-oriented experiences as part of assessment and intervention strategies for individuals with depression.

Mental Health Issues for Asian Americans

Abstract: One of fastest-growing population groups in recent decades, Asian Americans represent a vastly diversified and rich mixture of cultures, languages, beliefs, and practices, many of which differ widely from those of European Americans. As immigrants, Asian Americans have experienced and continue to experience various emotional and behavioral problems. However, they tend to underuse existing services except those that are culturally appropriate and linguistically compatible. Misdiagnosis frequently occurs, and the existence of culture-bound syndromes points to a lack of precise correspondence between indigenous labels and established diagnostic categories. Due to Asian traditions of viewing the body and mind as unitary rather than dualistic, patients tend to focus more on physical discomforts than emotional symptoms, leading to an overrepresentation of somatic complaints. Traditional practices and healing methods are frequently used to alleviate distress both before and after patients and their family members approach the conventional mental health care system. Help seeking typically is a family venture. Asian patients respond well to highly structured therapeutic interventions such as those used in behavioral, cognitive, and interpersonal models. When applying pharmacotherapy, clinicians should pay attention to Asians' unique responses to psychotropics, especially in regard to dosage requirements and side effects. Research in this area as well as on other important issues is in the early stage of development.

Gender, Interpersonal Power, and Social Influence

Abstract: This article reviews research on gender differences in power and their effect on social influence. Evidence indicates that men generally possess higher levels of expert and legitimate power than women do and that women possess higher levels of referent power than men do. These differences are reflected, to some extent, in the influence strategies used by men and women and, more clearly, in gender differences in social influence. Women generally have greater difficulty exerting influence than men do, particularly when they use influence that conveys competence and authority. These findings indicate that gender differences in influence are mediated by gender differences in power.

Collaborative learning and computer‐supported groups

Abstract: Computer‐supported collaborative learning (CSCL) is the educational use of on‐line groups. Utilizing on‐line groups for instruction requires an understanding of the multiple issues involved in CSCL, such as the pedagogy applicable to groups and how communication technology influences group interaction. Theoretical and empirical research relevant to the use of CSCL‐including collaborative learning research and computer‐mediated communication research‐is discussed using a descriptive model to categoric the extant literature. The model provides guidance in designing and utilizing CSCL activities with university‐level groups.

Training to improve virtual team communication

Abstract: . Organizations are utilizing virtual teams, comprising workgroup members who communicate and collaborate with technology, to accomplish tasks. These teams are geographically distributed and communicate via computer-mediated communication systems (CMCS), and may never or rarely meet face-to-face. Relational links among team members have been found to be a significant contributor to the effectiveness of information exchange in the use of CMCS. In most cases, team members receive little or no training to improve the effectiveness of this form of communication. When training is used, it often focuses on software utilization skills, not on interpersonal communication dynamics. This paper discusses the effect of virtual team communication training on group interactions, especially for enhancing these relational links and thereby improving communication and information exchange in virtual teams. It was found that teams that were given appropriate training exhibited improved perceptions of the interaction process over time, specifically with regard to trust, commitment and frank expression between members. Discussion of the role of training on virtual team processes and outcomes is discussed and future research implications are presented.

Testing the interactivity model: communication processes, partner assessments, and the quality of collaborative work

Abstract: A major consideration in designing and adopting new communication technologies is their impact on communication processes and outcomes. One way to understand this impact is according to the principle of interpersonal interactivity.Findings from two investigations are reported here that address how properties of task-related communication conducted with differing interfaces relate to perceptions of interaction partners and the outcomes of their collaborative work. Study 1 manipulated the interface affordances of mediation, contingency, and modality richness. Study 2 examined the affordance of mediation. Results show that interfaces that promote higher mutuality and involvement lead to more favorable perceptions of partners' credibility and attraction, and those perceptions are systematically related to higher-quality decisions and more influence. Discussion focuses on the relation between user perceptions, design features, and task outcomes in human-computer interaction and computer-mediated communication.

A Semantic Network Analysis of the International Communication Association

Abstract: This article examines the structure of the International Communication Association (ICA) through semantic network analysis. Semantic network analysis examines the relationships among a system's components based on the shared meanings of symbols. Galileo analysis and Quadratic Analysis Procedure revealed that the semantic network for ICA based on paper titles presented to its divisions and interest groups at its 1991 conference had a high degree of correspondence with the affiliation structure reported by Barnett and Danowski. Both networks differentiated the humanistic divisions from the scientific, the mediated from the interpersonal, and the theoretical from the applied. The results are taken to be an indication of the validity of the procedures employed for determining semantic networks. Finally, results are interpreted in regard to Human Communication Research's relationship to its parent organization, ICA.

Interpersonal processes of care in diverse populations

Abstract: Persons of lower socioeconomic status and members of racial and ethnic minority groups experience poorer health and increased health risk factors. A framework of interpersonal processes of care specifies distinct components and incorporates the perspective of diverse racial and ethnic or socioeconomic groups. Its dimensions, each with several domains, are communication (general clarity, elicitation of and responsiveness to patient concerns, explanations, empowerment), decision making (responsiveness to patient preferences, consideration of ability and desire to comply), and interpersonal style (friendliness, respectfulness, discrimination, cultural sensitivity, support). All the domains, except cultural sensitivity, were validated through a survey of 603 ethnically diverse, low-income adults. Confirmation of the framework's usefulness should enable researchers to explore how interpersonal processes might account for observed ethnic and social class differences in health care and health.

Mapping the range of information contained in the iconic hand gestures that accompany spontaneous speech.

Abstract: This study tested McNeill’s theory that the iconic gestures that accompany speech in everyday talk convey critical information in interpersonal communication. Using a structured interview to measur...

Empathy: a crucial component of the helping relationship.

Abstract: The literature reviewed in this paper substantiates the widely held view that empathy is crucial to all forms of helping relationships. While most studies cited are more than a decade old, the relationship between empathy and helping remains unchallenged in the 1990s. Additionally, while there is confusion about whether empathy is a personality dimension, an experienced emotion, or an observable skill, it is shown that empathy involves an ability to communicate an understanding of a client's world. Finally, a definition of empathy considered to be relevant to clinical nursing is introduced, which includes the need to understand client's distress, and to provide supportive interpersonal communication. It is argued that there is a need to revisit the role of empathy in the context of current health care delivery.

Fifty Strategies for Teaching English Language Learners

Abstract: * Designed to train ESL teachers in the most effective practices for instruction of limited English proficient students, Herrell's Fifty Strategies for Teaching English Language Learners provides an informative introduction to the field. This teacher training text was based on Herrell's research of the most successful strategies employed to support English language learners in their language acquisition process. She describes the book as a practical manual to provide K-12 ESL instructors with theoretical background and a step-by-step guide to the most effective language teaching techniques. This text is suitable for university-level or volunteer teachers-in-training. The text comprises 50 strategy chapters as well as an introduction, which includes a theoretical overview of second language acquisition theory, a discussion of practice with underlying theory, and a matrix of the 50 strategies with their objectives. Although the theoretical overview is a mere three pages long, it mentions such theories as Steven Krashen and Tracy Terrell's input hypothesis, Merrill Swain's output hypothesis, M. A. K. Halliday's seven functions of language, and Jim Cummins's concepts of basic interpersonal communication skills (BICS) and cognitive academic language proficiency (CALP). The author's discussion of the underlying theory base of instruction is also short but provides newcomers a compact set of five principles to follow: encourage verbal interaction, promote active involvement, support comprehensible input, contextualize language, and reduce anxiety. The matrix of the 50 strategies, which is vital to the use of this text, highlights which of the above principles are primary or secondary objectives of each strategy. The 50 strategies are organized alphabetically throughout the textlike

Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century

Abstract: 1. Adjusting to Modern Life. 2. Theories of Personality. 3. Stress and Its Effects. 4. Coping Processes. 5. Psychology and Physical Health. 6. The Self. 7. Social Thinking and Social Influence. 8. Interpersonal Communication. 9. Friendship and Love. 10. Marriage and Intimate Relationships. 11. Gender and Behavior. 12. Development and Expression of Sexuality. 13. Careers and Work. 14. Psychological Disorders. 15. Psychotherapy. 16. Positive Psychology.

Strategic Behaviors in Romantic Relationship Initiation

Abstract: Two studies were conducted to examine the strategies used to initiate romantic relationships. In Study 1, participants responded to questions about general romantic relationship initiation strategies derived from the literature. In Study 2, participants wrote narrative accounts of their romantic relationship initiation experiences, which were coded for relationship goals and initiation strategies. The effect of biological sex on the evaluation and use of relationship initiation strategies was assessed in both studies. Overall, the normative pattern of goals and strategies prominently included love and intimacy goals and direct and emotional-disclosure strategies. Men tended to be more active and direct in the beginning stages of relational development and to be more interested than women in the goal of sexual intimacy; women used passive and indirect strategies more often than men. Results are discussed in terms of Buss and Schmitt’s sexual strategies theory and Reis and Shaver’s model of interpersonal in...

Approaching the Future.

Abstract: (1999). The Future of the Social Turn: Social Minds and the New Capitalism. Research on Language and Social Interaction: Vol. 32, No. 1-2, pp. 61-68.

Supporting group collaboration with interpersonal awareness devices

Abstract: An Interpersonal Awareness Device, or IPAD, is a hand-held or wearable device designed to support awareness and collaboration between people who are in the physical vicinity of each other. An IPAD is designed to supply constant awareness information to users in any location without relying on an underlying infrastructure. We have constructed one such device, the Hummingbird, which gives members of a group continuous aural and visual indications when other group members are close. We have used the Hummingbirds in several different situations to explore how they affect group awareness. These experiences indicated that the Hummingbird increased awareness between group members, and that it could complement other forms of communication, such as phone and email. In particular, we found the Hummingbird to be useful when a group of people were in an unfamiliar location, for instance during a trip, where no other communication support was available. We argue that IPADs such as the Hummingbird may fulfil important functions in modern work situations.