The Effects of Assessment Feedback on Rapport-Building and Self-Enhancement Processes

Abstract

An experiment was conducted to test the effects of assessment feedback on rapport and self-enhancement. After adult participants (N = 83) completed the Millon Index of Personality Styles, the experimental group was given personalized assessment feedback; the control group received only general information about the inventory. After the session, all rapport-related scores (positive evaluations of examiner and session) and most of the self-enhancement-related scores (accurate mirroring, self-esteem, self-competence, and self-understanding) were significantly higher in the group that received assessment feedback. These results suggest that both processes are mechanisms by which the provision of assessment feedback produces positive change. Implications for mental health counselors are drawn.