Communication ETDs

Publication Date

8-25-1975

Abstract

This study initially examined the literature concerning: 1) structural leadership behavior, 2) affective behavior, and 3) the interdependent effects of both on satisfaction.

This literature and the theoretic positions of primarily Gibb (1961), Hays (1967), Heller (1966), and Stogdill et al. (1969) were synthesized and the following hypotheses were advanced.

H1: Subjects responding in the unstructured-supportive condition will demonstrate no significantly greater levels of satisfaction than those subjects responding in the structured-supportive condition.

H2: Subjects in the structured-defensive condition will respond with significantly greater levels of satisfaction than those subjects in the unstructured-defensive condition.

Forty subjects meeting the criteria for the experimental conditions were tested. Each subject listened to a taped message which stimulated speech critiques given to performing students. Message checks were conducted on the structural statements and the supportive or defensive nature of the resultant affective criticisms. Data were analyzed by means of two independent t-tests.

Both hypotheses appeared tenable. Results were discussed in terms of the literature and the theoretic rationale which generated the hypotheses. A communication theory as a function of structure and ego-threat was offered. Suggestions for future research were advanced.

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Communication

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Department of Communication and Journalism

First Committee Member (Chair)

Timothy Gary Plax

Second Committee Member

Jean Marie Civikly

Third Committee Member

Robert Harold White

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