The Reduction of Cognitive Conflict

Abstract

The effectiveness of training individuals to utilize Rapoport's “region of validity” technique (1960) as well as Gibb's “supportive” types of communication (1961) in reducing cognitive conflict was examined with a sample of 122 students participating in a version of Hammond's cognitive conflict paradigm (1966). Message content analysis was employed to discern the effect of various message types on conflict reduction. Analysis indicates that training in use of the “region of validity” technique and “supportive” types of communication reduces confict and that problem-oriented messages are positively associated with conflict reduction.