Effects of Creative Problem Solving Training on Communication Behaviors in Small Groups

Abstract

This study investigated tlhe differences in communication behaviors in small groups trained in creative problem solving (CPS) with groups not trained in CPS. Forty groups of five members each were evaluated (22 trained groups and 18 untrained groups). Communication behaviors evaluated were amount of participation, evenness of participation, verbal indications of criticism, verbal indications of support, and verbal and nonverbal indications of humor. Groups were also evaluated on the quantity of ideas generated. Results indicated that groups trained in CPS participated more, criticized ideas less, supported ideas more, exhibited more verbal and nonverbal indications of humor, and produced more ideas than did untrained groups-all at a significant level. Groups trained in CPS did not participate evenly as compared to groups not trained in CPS. This finding is examined in light of the role of the idea recorder in the groups.