Sensitivity Training and Education: A Critique

I HE present popularization of sensitivity training ("T-group experiences) and its widespread use by an ever-increasing number of semi-intellectuals and pseudoprofessionals have created a need for a closer examination of the field along with its as sumptions, practices, and outcomes. Sensi tivity training has evolved from an early emphasis on the sociological aspects of group dynamics under the direction of its founders, Leland Bradford, Ronald Lippitt, and Ken neth Benne, to an orientation based more on the psychological. Recognition of the power of the T-group has led to a high degree of experimentalism. Various applications of the technique have been developed to serve a variety of purposes. The earliest application formulated was de signed for organizational development. Here the emphasis was on organizational change rather than personal development of partici pants. Sociological phenomena were studied while the psychological aspects of group be havior were ignored. Subsequent to this a second category for sensitivity training became prominent. The major subcategories include encounter groups, marathon labs, and confrontation sessions. These types of training differ sig nificantly from the organizational develop ment application, in that greater stress is placed on the psychological aspects of group dynamics. In the encounter groups, for exam ple, there is a direct exposure of values, beliefs, and feelings. The group is encour aged to operate almost exclusively on an affective basis. Uninhibited exposure of emo tions is acceptable, while reserve and defensiveness are discouraged. Complete openness and honesty are the sought-after goals. Marathons differ from encounter groups primarily in terms of intensity of the experience. These sessions go "nonstop" and are designed to literally break through the normal defense patterns of participants as quickly as possible and thus move immedi ately to new levels of open behavior. Con frontation sessions consist of contrived racial encounters where whites and blacks openly confront one another in an attempt to more vividly portray the nature of prejudice and the racial problems which exist. Such con frontations hopefully provide the participants with a more realistic perception of the racial issues and new perspectives in solving them. More recently a third type of sensitivity training has invaded the field. This kind of training is by far the most experimental and consists primarily of a variety of nonverbal exercises. Techniques range from simple exercises with a minimum of body contact to more intimate associations. The objec tives for this type of experience are unclear at best and the supporting theories are of questionable validity. Nevertheless, the tech nique is in wide use and is increasing in popularity.