Effects of Two Experiential Approaches on Attitudes Toward

This study compares the differential effectiveness of two experiential approaches, direct and vicarious, to the induction of Jhange in self-reports of attitudes toward personal growth groups. University undergraduate volunteers were assigned and exposed to one of three treatment conditions: 1) a structured, direct experience in a micro-laboratory personal growth group design; 2) a vicarious experience involving the viewing of a filmed personal growth group; or 3) a no treatment control condition. A questionnaire containing six likert-type scale items involving attitudes toward personal growth groups was completed by each subject after exposure to the experimental treatment. Results by the study strongly support the basic assumption that attitudinal changes are accomplished most validly through participation in which individuals are directly involved. These results have clear implications for the counseling professional engaged in conceptualizing and implementing developmental programs that focus entirely or in part on attitude change. (Author