Differential Effects of Supervisor Verbal Feedback and Feedback Plus Approval on Institutional Staff Performance

The effects of supervisor verbal feedback and verbal feedback with approval statements on the performance of staff in an institution for retarded persons were investigated using a combination multiple baseline and reversal experimental design. Verbal feedback on the performance of individual staff members was accompanied by substantial decreases in nonjob-related (off-task) activities on two work shifts, although only temporary increases in more desirable behaviors (interactions with residents) occurred. When supervisor approval statements were paired with immediate feedback. beneficial increases in interactions resulted, and off-task behaviors remained infrequent. Results are discussed in light of the differential effects of verbal feedback and verbal feedback with praise. In addition, the need for continued research on specific variables related to the effectiveness of performance feedback systems is discussed.