NUMBER AND SPECIFICITY OF PERFORMANCE OUTCOMES IN THE PREDICTION OF ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORAL INTENTIONS

The problem of how many performance outcomes to use and how specific they should be in predicting satisfaction and behavioral intentions was addressed. 323 soldiers responded to a desirability and instrumentality scale for each of 16 potential outcomes obtainable from outstanding performance. Scores were factor analysed and composites were formed to reflect each dimension. Three criteria (satisfaction, perceived effort and intention to reenlist) were predicted using (a) all 16 outcome items, (b) only 11 items defining four outcome dimensions and (c) 4 items only, each item reflecting an outcome dimension. In all cases, the 11-item set was a better predictor than the 16-item set, and the 4-item set was nearly as effective as the 16-item set. Instrumentalities were found to be significantly better predictors of satisfaction than of effort, while the reverse was true of valences. It was suggested that adequacy of coverage of the out come domain rather than list length or outcome specificity, was the critical issue in improving predictability.     

Impact of attachment style on reactions to accommodative dilemmas in close relationships

Four studies examined reactions to accommodative dilemmas in ongoing close relationships, exploring the association between adult attachment style—secure, avoidant, and anxious-ambivalent—and four possible modes of reaction—exit, voice, loyalty, and neglect. Consistent with predictions, it was shown that which close partners enact potentially destructive behaviors, insecurely attached individuals tend to react in a more defensive and destructive manner. Specifically, in comparison to secure individuals, insecure individuals were more likely to react to accommodative dilemmas with exit and neglect, and were less likely to react with voice. Contrary to predictions, individuals with avoidant and anxious-ambivalent styles did not differ in their reactions to accommodative dilemmas. The implications of these findings for understanding reactions to emotionally threatening interpersonal situations are discussed.     

The University and College Counseling Center and Malpractice Suits

This article provides the university and college counseling center with management suggestions for and discussion of malpractice suits regarding issues that refer to sexual abuse, potentially dangerous, and suicidal clients.     

INTERVENING AT THE BOTTOM: ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH ENLISTED PERSONNEL IN AN ARMY WORK-SETTING1

If Organizational Development technology is expected to have an effect on soldier perceptions, attitudes, and performance, then it must be assured that OD interventions adequately penetrate to their level. This may not be likely to occur in a multi-layered Army organization. This study examines the effects of a series of OD techniques in an Army organization where penetration was assured by dealing directly with the troops at the lowest levels. The results showed positive changes in soldier perceptions and performance following an OD program including survey feedback, participative problem-solving, and job enrichment techniques.