Improvising: A Grounded Theory Investigation of Psychology Students' Level of Anxiety, Coping, Communicative Skills, Imagination, and Spontaneity

Abstract

The aim of this study was to gain insight into the phenomenon of improvisation, how it is manifested in communication, and to conceptualize the process of improvisation in general. I aimed to construct a model for use in teaching and further analysis of training programs that target and develop improvisation skills in communication. The ability to communicate is part and parcel of psychologists’ work. I develop and supervise interactive classes and training programs to promote improvisation and communication skills, using the grounded theory of improvisation in communication under conditions of high uncertainty. The improvisation sessions were videotaped, transcribed, and analyzed. Applying the qualitative method and working with grounded theory methodology, I studied five sessions. Here I report on the major categories that condition the improvisational process: Level of Anxiety, Coping, Communicative Skills, Imagination, and Spontaneity. I also outline the markers of spontaneous behavior: strange combinations (oxymorons), humor, and rapid topic switching.