SCHEMATIC MAPS - COGNITIVE TOOLS FOR ENHANCING THE EARLY STAGES OF COUNSELING

The purpose of the present studies was to explore the utility of schem atic maps as tools for the early stages of both peer and self-counseli ng. In experiment 1 (self-counseling), 42 students from undergraduate general psychology classes participated to fulfill course requirements . Participants were assigned to either a schematic map or essay group. They first extracted information about their alcohol-related behavior patterns and then analyzed the patterns from the perspective of a cou nselor. In experiment 2 (peer counseling), 38 students from upper-divi sion psychology courses participated for extra credit. Participants we re asked to evaluate behavior patterns, in the form of maps or essays, which were presented either in the same form as they were extracted o r were transposed to the other format. In both studies, assessment con sisted of questionnaires that addressed the usefulness of the tools in the counseling process. Schematic maps are potentially powerful tools for both self- and peer counseling. For self-counseling, maps were pr eferred over traditional essay writing. In addition, the subjective re action to maps as tools for peer counseling was positive.