Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Conceptual Systems Theory And Cognitive Complexity, Thomas T. Colyer

Student Work

The major function of this study was to assess differences in interpersonal cognitive complexity among the four belief systems specified by Harvey’s Conceptual Systems Theory. In addition, criticism is offered of many of the more commonly used indicators of cognitive complexity (e.g. Bieri, 1955) since they tend to identify cognitive complexity with cognitive differentiation. Herein is offered an alternative method of measuring cognitive complexity which is seen as indicating both differentiation and integration. The study used 54 graduate and undergraduate students, of which 35 were females and 19 were males. The alternative method of calculating cognitive complexity relies upon Hinkle’s …