Recognition and Utilization of Expertise in Problem-Solving Groups
Abstract
The authors examined how personal characteristics and behaviors of the most expert group member relate to the group's recognition and utilization of expertise. One hundred sixty-six college students worked in 34 small groups to complete a survival exercise. Characteristics and behaviors of the most expert member of each group were correlated with measures of recognition of expertise and influence. An expert who was talkative and high (relative to other members) in the use of the influence tactic reason was more likely to be recognized as an expert by other group members. An expert was more influential if male and when he or she frequently talked, was dominant, received support from a talkative colleague, and used reason.