Interpersonal Rigidity, Hostility, and Complementarity in Musical Bands

In this test of interpersonal theory ( R. C. Carson, 1969 ; D. J. Kiesler, 1983 ; T. Leary, 1957 ; J. S. Wiggins, 1982 ), complementarity and interpersonal rigidity were examined in relation to positive regard for others and group integration among 206 members of 54 musical bands. Complementarity was associated with more positive regard and more group integration in bands consisting of musicians who were high in interpersonal rigidity (as indexed by vector length on the interpersonal circle), whereas the effect was less strong in bands consisting of musicians who were lower in rigidity. The meager support for personality compatibility in groups and dyads observed in previous research could thus be due to a neglect of interpersonal rigidity-flexibility. There was also evidence that hostile complementarity was beneficial to the relationships of hostile individuals.