Abstract
This study examined the effects of relativization of the self and others with conflicting opinions
on dyadic discussion productivity in face-to-face and computer-mediated situations. Two conditions
were set, depending on the level of agreement in the discussion, and two more conditions pertaining
to the recognition of similarity of the partner’s general attitude. The messages in the discussion
were evaluated from the perspectives of diversity of issues, advantages of the opponent opinion, and
politeness of expression. Experiment 1 (N = 78) involved a computer-mediated situation, in which
agreement was strongly required, and results indicated productive effects of diversity of points of view
while comparing the self with others. Moreover, while recognizing that the self and the partner were
similar, polite expression increased as a result of relativization. However, in Experiment 2 (N = 66) in
a face-to-face situation, the effect of suppressing productivity was observed symmetrically. Changes
in the continuity of the dialogue, differences in the effects of relativization between situations, and
applicability of relativization were discussed.
https://ror.org/0238qsm25 
