The Name Game: Community Response to Counselor Names.

Numerous studies on the effects of common and unusual names reveal contradictory findings. Some studies conclude that an unusual first name or surname is detrimental to a person's self-concept; other studies conclude that an unusual first name, especially if it is a surname, cause no ill-effects on a person's psychological well-being. College students (N=79) participated in a study of the impact of male therapists' first names and surnames on potential clients. Students evaluated selected "most appropriate" and "least appropriate" first names that were paired with "most appropriate" and "least appropriate" surnames. Results showed the name combinations most favorably evalutated were "most appropriate" first name paired with "most appropriate" surname. Male and female differed in their ratings. Socialization patterns may play some part in the favorable or unfavorable perception of names. The counselors' important job of presenting themselves to their communities may become easier if they develop an awareness of the effect their names may have on clients. (Author/PAS)