Perception of theoretically derived counseling approaches as a function of preference for counseling orientation.

Abstract

Examined the relationship between preference for major counseling orientations and perception of counselor behavior in theoretically derived counseling interviews. Seventy-seven undergraduate students viewed demonstration interviews by Rogers and Lazarus, rated the counselor behavior on the Counselor Rating Form, and were assessed in their endorsement of seven major counseling orientations. A regression analysis performed on the preference scores for seven counseling orientations (predictors) in response to the counselor perception scores on the Counselor Rating Form showed a significant relationship only between the client-centered orientation and Rogers. Lazarus was not predicted from any of the seven orientations. Additional analysis of the Counselor Rating Form data revealed that Lazarus was perceived as more expert, attractive, and trustworthy than Rogers. The results are discussed in relation to previous studies.