The Effects of 'Crucial Conversations' Training on Roommate Satisfaction and Roommate Friendship

Abstract

This study examined the impact of a communication skills workshop called 'Crucial Conversations' on the satisfaction and friendship levels of first-year roommate dyads. Roommate satisfaction and roommate friendship were measured for students who had attended the workshop with their roommates; for students who attended, but their roommate did not; for students who did not attend, but their roommate did; and for roommate pairs in which neither student attended. Overall, the students who attended this workshop with their roommates reported higher levels of roommate satisfaction and roommate friendship. Suggestions for further research were also offered.