Naïve Theories About the Effects of Mood in Groups: A Preliminary Investigation

Abstract

We examined the content and consequences of people's naïve theories about the effects of group mood. These theories are a potential input in Kelly and Spoor's (2006) Input-Process-Outcome model of group moods and performance. In Study 1, participants generated potential positive and negative consequences of group moods, which were coded using an adapted form of Bales' Interaction Process Analysis (Bales, 1970). Participants believed that positive and negative moods have implications for both task and relationship processes, and these consequences varied according to group type (creativity, friendship, decision making, and sport team). In Study 2, participants watched an ostensible group interaction among friends or strangers who had just had positive or negative experiences. Perceptions of the interaction varied in a manner consistent with naïve theories about group moods and their effects. Implications for future research on group moods are discussed.