Study of the motion picture "Denise Calls Up" focusing on the action theory by Chris Argyris and Donald Schön

Abstract

Behavioral dynamics portrayed in the motion picture, "Denise Calls Up" by Hal Salwen (1955), were analyzed in relation to omission, indifference, surreptitious manipulation, merciful lies and unilateral control and protection. These attitudes are typical of the Opposite of Model I by Chris Argyris and Donald Schön (1995) and are difficult to identify, analyze and discuss in human interactions. Arguments were based on the Model, which was part of their Theory of Action (1977, 1996), and questioned how researchers and consultants could make mental models and modi operandi better known to others. An analysis of the film was also presented thereby contributing to the scientific literature in Brazil which is concerned with aiding groups and organizations to analyze their dynamics. The study was qualitative and observational, based upon indirect non-participative observation. The method used was discourse analysis related to the scenes that illustrate the theoretical propositions under study. Aspects of the Action Theory were succinctly contextualized from the point of view of the behavioral dynamics which permeated the human relations identified in the movie, to provide a theoretical foundation for the study.