Social Psychology: Group Processes

Flashcards focusing on key concepts from the 'Group Processes' section of social psychology.

Group

A collection of two or more individuals who perceive themselves as part of a unit, influence each other, and are interdependent.

Groupiness

The degree to which a collection of individuals resembles a group.

Cohesiveness

The strength of the bonds that hold group members together.

Entitativity

The degree to which outside observers can easily conceptualize the group as a group.

Social Norms

Rules, typically unwritten, about how people should or should not behave.

Deindividuation

A psychological state characterized by loss of self-awareness and sense of personal responsibility.

Social Facilitation

The enhancement or impairment of performance when an individual is in the presence of others.

Social Loafing

The phenomenon where individuals exert less effort when working in a group compared to working alone.

Free Riding

The act of reducing effort because one believes their contribution to the group task is not important.

Groupthink

Faulty thinking that may occur in cohesive groups that emphasize unanimity over careful examination of information.

Minority Influence

The process by which a numerical minority in a group changes the attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors of a majority.

Transactional Leaders

Leaders who use transactions—offering benefits in exchange for effort—to motivate the group.

Transformational Leaders

Leaders who offer a compelling vision that inspires followers to pursue overarching goals.

Social Identity Theory of Leadership

The theory that leadership effectiveness depends on how well the leader reflects the social identity of the group.

Gender & Leadership

Refers to the dynamics of leadership abilities across genders, noting that women tend to be more communal and relations-oriented.