ATTRACTION, DISCREPANCY, AND RESPONSES TO PSYCHOLOGICAL TREATMENT

To test predictions derived from balance theory, the effects of positive versus negative interpersonal attraction and of communications similarity versus discrepancy upon S's responses to a counselor and to psychological treatment were investigated. 3 male counselor-accomplices interviewed 72 male Ss. In a laboratory situation made manifestly similar to that of psychological treatment, a client's responses to a counselor who attempts to modify his behavior are seen to be contingent both upon how personally attracted the client is to his counselor, and how congruent their discussion is with the client's prior expectations. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1969 American Psychological Association.