Individual and Group Problem Solving and Type of Orientation as a Function of High, Moderate and Low Death Anxiety

Abstract

This study utilized a defense mechanism model of death anxiety to investigate the hypothesis of differential individual and group problem solving ability as well as differing types of orientation as a function of High, Moderate and Low Death Anxiety. Results of Experiment I demonstrated significant effects of levels of Death Anxiety on both individual and group problem solving ability. Results of Experiment II partially replicated the results of Experiment I, but failed to demonstrate predicted significant differences between self, task, and interaction orientations within or between low and moderate death anxiety groups. However, significant differences were reported between moderate and high anxiety groups as well as between low and high death anxiety groups. Discussion focused on the partial replication of Experiment I's findings, and upon the usefulness of specific predictions which arise from utilizing the defense mechanism model for death anxiety and its implications for future research.