Testing Propositions Derived from Rogers' Conceptual System

Abstract

This research tests hypotheses derived from the Rogerian conceptual system, the science of unitary human beings. The investigation sought to explore the effects of high frequency, low frequency, and ambient sound environments on vividness and creativity of imagery. The theo retical grounding of the research was synthesized from Rogers' princi ples of integrality and resonancy and the correlates of patterning in unitary human beings. The hypotheses of this study asserted that sub jects in an environment of high frequency sounds will have greater vividness and creativity of imagery than those in environments of low frequency sounds or ambience. The study used a pre-test and post-test control group design with 180 subjects randomly assigned to one of three sound environments for 20 minutes. The Betts' Questionnaire on Mental Imagery and Onomatopoeia and Images were the instruments selected for measuring vividness and creativity of imagery, respectively. The hypotheses did not receive experimental support. The discussion of findings elucidates both theoretical and methodological issues related to testing hypotheses derived from the Rogerian conceptual system. Recommendations for future study include replicating the study with high and low frequency sounds that are less annoying and tedious, such as sounds from nature or musical sounds.