Full study of small group communication must include consideration of task and socio-emotional dimensions, especially in relation to group problem solving. Thirty small groups were tested for their reactions in various "ad hoc" conflict resolution situations. Instructions to the groups were (1) no problem-solving instructions (control), (2) reflective thinking instructions, (3) conflict management instructions, and (4) instructions combining reflective thinking and conflict management. Posttesting yielded group satisfaction, perception of tension, and expression of disagreement. Results showed that there were no significant differences among the various groups and approaches. These findings contradict earlier published research using managed conflict instruction. (CH)