Cohort Differences in Perceptions of Helpful Counselor Characteristics

The present study examined age cohort differences in older and younger adults as they relate to perceptions of helpful counselor characteristics. The present study also assessed whether previous help-seeking behavior influences perceptions of what counselor characteristics would be helpful. The social influence model is used as basis for predictions. The first research hypothesis for the present study was that there would be an age by cohort interaction in perceptions of helpful counselor characteristics at both Time 1 (1991) and Time 2 (2001). The second research hypothesis was that there would be a main effect for cohort, with more recently born cohorts preferring more interpersonal counselor characteristics. The third research hypothesis was that there would be a main effect for age in endorsement of the social influence model. The fourth research hypothesis was that there would be a significant difference between the perceptions of those individuals who had previously sought help from a mental health professional and those individuals who had not sought help, regardless of age and cohort. A revised Adjective Check List (Gough, 1965; Gough & Heilbrum, 1983) was used to assess perceptions of helpful counselor characteristics. Chi-square analyses, MANOVA/supplementary ANOVAs, and exploratory factor analyses were used to test the research hypotheses. The first and second research hypotheses were supported. The third research hypothesis was not supported. The fourth research hypothesis was supported for Time 1, but not for Time 2. Limitations of the present study and implications of this research are discussed.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of North Texas

Year dc:date

2002

Author dc:creator

• Utermark, Tamisha L

Contributors dc:contributor

• Hayslip, Bert
• McConnell, Judith
• Glover, Rebecca

• Counselor and client.
• Social influence.
• MANOVA
• social influence theory
• cohort effects
• older adults
• age

Statement dc:rights

• Public
• Copyright
• Utermark, Tamisha L
• Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved.

Language dc:language

English

Identifier

oclc: 50914207
https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc3201/
ark: ark:/67531/metadc3201

OAI identifier oai:identifier

info:ark/67531/metadc3201