Reflection‐Impulsivity and Wholist‐Analytic: two fledglings? ...or is R‐I a cuckoo?

Abstract

Riding has proposed two families of cognitive styles: Wholist‐Analytic and Verbaliser‐Imager. Although the supporting empirical evidence has been demonstrated, the issue not fully addressed is whether the families are also theoretical valid. The task here is to evaluate the W‐A family against cognitive style theory, as proposed by Witkin and other style theorists. Several ideas are discussed: (1) Overall, the W‐A family provides a useful catalyst to styles research; (2) Despite the envisioned success of the W‐A family, reflection‐impulsivity may be a much less supportive member, having several differences with W‐A theory; (3) These have important implications for the continuing strength of styles theory and research. It also has strong implications for the application of cognitive styles in educational settings.