Sex Differences in Task and Social-Emotional Behavior

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Abstract
Studies which used behavioral observation techniques were reviewed to determine if significant sex differences exist in small group interaction. Results-indicated that (1) there are no significant differences between men and women in total participation rates, (2) men have significantly higher active task behavior (answers) and women have significantly higher positive social-emotional behavior, but the differences are less than 10%, (3) there are no significant sex differences in rates of negative social-emotional behavior or passive task behavior (questions), (4) these interaction rates are independent of sexual composition of the group but are affected by the sexual bias of the group's task, (5) sex differences in interaction are not related to differences in group productivity, (6) the majority of men's and women's interaction, both as members and as group leaders, is in the task categories, (7) members' attitudes and satisfaction are related to sex differences in approximately 30% of the tested relationships but not always in the manner which sexual stereotypes would suggest. Implications of these conclusions are discussed briefly.

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