Control of Communication in Dyads by Reinforcement

Abstract

This study examined effects of reinforcement on speaker vs listener role-taking in a dyad. Given the task of describing TAT cards, Ss obtained points, exchangeable for money, for talking or listening in a dyad. One S had control over the distribution of talk time, with the partner talking only upon request. The partner, E's confederate, was reinforced at a higher rate than S for talking (Group CH), an equal rate (Group HH), or a lower rate (Group SH). In all groups Ss increased talking over trials. This increase was greater in Group SH, next in HH, lowest in CH. Interactional pattern changes were due mainly to duration of utterances rather than the tempo in the verbal interchange.