Group Dynamics Q1 Prelims

Group Dynamics

• Patterns of interaction, behavior, and psychological processes that occur within a group and between group members

• Examines how individuals influence one another, how roles, norms, leadership, communication, and power develop, and how these factors affect group functioning, decision-making, and performance

Group Dynamics (in Psychology)

Focuses on understanding how people behave differently in groups than as individuals, and how group structure and processes shape attitudes, relationships, and outcomes

Group Formation

• Refers to the process by which individuals come together to form in order to form a group in order to satisfy personal, social, or task-related needs

• Explains why and how groups are created and begin to function

Common goals

achieve objectives that cannot be attained individually

Security and protection

feeling of safety in numbers

Social needs

belongingness, affiliation, and companionship

Recognition and status

gaining identity and self-esteem

Task-accomplishment

sharing skills, responsibilities, and resources

Norming

• group norms and rules are established

• cooperation and trust develop

• roles become clearer

Performing

• group works efficiently toward goals

• high productivity and collaboration

• minimal conflict

adjourning (Added later)

• group disbands after goal achievement

• feelings of accomplishment or sadness may occur

positive norms

encourage productivity and cooperation

negative norms

may promote laziness, aggression

group norms

tells members what is, are, unacceptable behavior in a group

group cohesion

• degree to which members are attracted to a group and motivated to remain a part of it

• reflects the strength of relationships and sense of unity within the group

group cohesion (Definition)

bond that holds members together and encourages cooperation and commitment

task cohesion

commitment to achieving group goals

social cohesion

emotional bonds and interpersonal attraction among members

power and authority

ability to influence others or control resources

communication patters

how info flows within a group

status

level of importance/status/respect

• roles

• status

• norms

• leadership

• communication patterns

• power and authority

key elements (6 - RSNLCP)

• group goals

• cultural background

• leadership style

• length of group interaction

factors affecting norm formation (4 - GCLL)

1. Common Goals

2. Security and Protection

3. Social Needs

4. Recognition and Status

5. Task Accomplishment

Reasons for Group Formation (5-CSSRT)

• forming

• storming

• norming

• performing

• adjourning

stages of group development (5-FSNPA)

• helps understand early group behavior

• explains sources of conflict and cooperation

• essential for effective leadership

importance of group formation

• group formation

• group structure

• group norms

• group cohesion

elements of group dynamics (4-FSNC)