Models of integration given multiple sources of information

Several models of information integration are developed and analyzed within the context of a proto-typical pattern-recognition task. The central concerns are whether the models prescribe maximally efficient (optimal) integration and to what extent the models are psychologically valid. Evaluation, integration, and decision processes are specified for each model. Important features are whether evaluation is noisy, whether integration follows Bayes's theorem, and whether decision consists of a criterion rule or a relative goodness rule. Simulations of the models and predictions of the results by the same models are carried out to provide a measure of identifiability or the extent to which the models can be distinguished from one another. The models are also contrasted against empirical results from tasks with 2 and 4 response alternatives and with graded responses.     

Spiritual growth through care of the dying

One of the most difficult issues with which clergy must deal is that of theodicy, the reconciliation of a good God with evil in this world. The case of L.R. is that of a good thirty-nine-year-old man dying of cancer. This paper examines the role of the clergy in working with the dying patient, traditional responses to the questions of theodicy, and a proposal for an adequate contemporary solution to the issue of theodicy. One key factor in caring for the dying is the mutual spiritual growth of the dying patient and the clergy care giver.     

Some aspects of the interpersonal phenomenology of heterosexual dyads with respect to sex-role stereotypes

A technique based upon recently developed Boolean calculi for interpersonal phenomenology was used to study sex-role attributions within 59 heterosexual dyads. The interpersonal and intrapersonal variables studied include perceived similarity, validation of self-concept, expectations of agreement, feelings of being understood, predictions that the partner expects agreement, understanding, accurate perception of understanding/misunderstanding, and accurate perception of expectations on agreement/disagreement. All variables were studied in relation to each member of the dyad and in relation to male and female sex-role stereotypes. Analyses of all variables are consistent with two conclusions: (1) Phenomenal disparity in a relationship is more likely to be generated around male sex-role stereotypes than around female sex-role stereotypes; (2) phenomenal disparity in a relationship is most likely to occur in connection with counter-sex-role attributions to the female. Increased uncertainty regarding counter-sex-role attributions about women and lowered validation of self-concept for women who adopt counter-sex-role attributes are shown to contribute to these effects. These conclusions are seen as a reflection of an asymmetry which seems to be consistent in the literature: Counter-sex-role choices and attitudes seem to be less discordant for males than for females in this culture. Evidence of this asymmetry is discussed.     

Issues involved in the treatment of an adolescent group.

At first we had a lot of information about what to expect from an adolescent group. But we quickly found an enormous gap between our information and the actual experience and gut feelings. It is important to anticipate many overwhelming feelings! It is also crucial for therapists to be open and honest with themselves and each other about their counter-transferences. Second, we discovered that it is not hopeless! However, it is essential to provide structure via firm, consistent limits and goals. Adolescents need to feel protected by therapists who can manage the group's turbulence. Third, creative techniques frequently provide ways of dealing with feelings. Four, a treatment group cannot survive with too many acters-out; one or two may add spice and give permission to others to recognize and express feelings. Also, despite the often chaotic atmosphere, serious treatment takes place. It has been helpful to have Mrs. Friedman as our supervisor. At critical points, when we were overwhelmed, she helped with her objectivity and support, offering a clearer vision of actual treatment issues when feelings were high. At times when we felt depleted, Mrs. Friedman's support replenished us and we were able to return to the group with enthusiasm. In conclusion, it has been fun working as co-therapists. We have found that the sharing and mutual confrontation contributed significantly to our professional growth.     

Effects of self-esteem and expected duration of interaction on liking for a highly rewarding partner.

Psychological theories predicated on the assumption of human selfishness and theories based on principles of equity may lead to conflicting predictions about when a person will like his partner. Of special interest are a person's reactions to receiving uncommonly high rewards. The present study addressed this issue by examing the development of same-sex liking in 40 female college students. It was hypothesized that subjects with lowered self-esteem, having a great need for interpersonal rewards, would react favorably to the receipt of such rewards, even if underserved. Subjects with raised self-esteem, on the other hand, having had their need for rewards met, should respond unfavorably to the receipt of high rewards, desiring a more equitable distribution of reward. These effects should be strong only when continuing dyadic interaction is expected (i.e., as issues of stability and reciprocity become salient). The predictions were confirmed.