Systematic Bias in Perceptions of Superiors in Missile Combat Crews.

This document studies the superordinate-subordinate relationships within a strategic Missile Operations Squadron. Thirty-five crews of four men each were given instruments to test their role preferences, pressures, and perceptions of their subordinates. Inter-correlations were found between scales within each dyad using Pearson-Product-Moment coefficients. The role relationships which influenced upward perceptions by subordinates are emphasized. Rebels tended to perceive their bosses as authoritarian rather than equalitarians while ingratiators and critics saw their superiors as equalitarian and not authoritarian. Similar patterns to a lesser degree were found in the crew commanders perceptions of site commanders. These relationships were true for role preferences and role pressures. Superordinates also effected the upper perceptions. Authoritarians dont see their bosses as authoritarian but either as equalitarian or permissive. Equalitarians perceived equalitarianism while permissives perceived equalitarianism in their bosses. These results parallel very closely the results found in other studies.