Review of Interaction process analysis

Abstract

Reviews the book, "Interaction process analysis," by R. F. Bales (see record 1950-04553-000 ). This book presents a method of observing and analyzing the interpersonal behavior of small groups concerned with problem solving. It involves essentially the direct observation of persons in a group and the classification of all observed behavior into one of a set of twelve categories. The set of categories includes behavior of four types: questions, answers, negative reactions, and positive reactions. Interaction process analysis is applicable to a wide variety of groups and inter-personal situations where an objective method of behavior analysis is badly needed. Because of the presentation, however, the use of the method here will probably be limited-even among other researchers in the field, to whom the book is addressed. This is regrettable because the author has provided at least a foundation for further development, and possibly considerable superstructure. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)