Skip to main content

Group sex composition and member task motivation

Kerr, Norbert L., Sullaway, Megan E. (1983) Group sex composition and member task motivation. Sex Roles, 9 (3). pp. 403-417. ISSN 0360-0025. (doi:10.1007/bf00289676) (The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided) (KAR id:42542)

The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided.
Official URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/bf00289676

Abstract

Previous research and the performance prescriptions of traditional sex roles suggested that even when sex differences in ability were effectively eliminated, males would increase and females would decrease their motivation when working in a mixed-sex group. To test this prediction, the task performance of members of same- and mixed-sex dyads was compared with individual controls. The results supported the prediction for males, but not for females. Both males and females were better motivated in mixed-sex dyads than when working individually. Neither males nor females were any better motivated in same-sex dyads than when working individually. Several alternative explanations for these results are discussed: The consequences of mixed-sex group composition for motivation may have been due to greater cohesiveness, greater concern with one's partner's performance expectations, increased self-awareness, or increased drive level in mixed-sex groups. The possible mediating role of perceived sex differences in ability is discussed, as well as several external validity questions.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1007/bf00289676
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Human and Social Sciences > School of Psychology
Depositing User: M.L. Barnoux
Date Deposited: 21 Aug 2014 11:30 UTC
Last Modified: 16 Nov 2021 10:16 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/42542 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

University of Kent Author Information

Kerr, Norbert L..

Creator's ORCID:
CReDIT Contributor Roles:
  • Depositors only (login required):

Total unique views for this document in KAR since July 2020. For more details click on the image.