Department
Psychology
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
This research was conducted to determine if a discrepancy between self and ideal-self concepts could be effectively reduced by a verbal conditioning technique. Subjects were selected on the basis of manifesting a self-ideal discrepancy of one standard deviation or more as measured by the Leary Interpersonal Check List. The subjects were then divided into two groups, equated on the basis of sex, age, and amount of discrepancy. One group was reinforced for statements about the ideal-self in three different discussion sessions; the other was subjected to experimental conditions but received no reinforcement. A second check list was then administered and scored to determine what changes occurred. All data were analyzed by a chi square design. Results indicated that the experimental group showed more decrease in discrepancy than the control group, and that a decrease was the most prevalent result within the experimental group. It was also noted that within the experimental group the movement was from post-conditioning ideal to pre-conditioning self. The results are a demonstration of what self-theorists assert is necessary for successful psychotherapy.
Keywords
Psychotherapy, Psychiatry, Self-improvement, Mental states, Behavior, Verbal conditioning, Students, Fort Hays State University, Ellis County (Kan.), Chi-square test
Advisor
Dr. William F. Gwynn
Date of Award
Summer 1964
Document Type
Thesis - campus only access
Recommended Citation
Birney, Sherman Daryl, "Effects of Directed Verbal Conditioning on Self-Ideal Discrepancies" (1964). Master's Theses. 837.
DOI: 10.58809/PPNW5330
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/theses/837
Rights
© The Author(s)
Comments
For questions contact ScholarsRepository@fhsu.edu