Chapter 17 Groups

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 17: Groups.

Optimum group size

The ideal number of members for a group is five, though groups can be smaller or larger; size affects decision-making and creativity.

Primary group

A small, close-knit group (often 20 members or less) with regular contact that cooperates toward common goals and strongly influences members' self-concept.

Secondary group

A larger, less intimate group formed around work or activities that influence attitudes and perceptions through interactions.

Reference group

A group used as a benchmark to judge beliefs, values, and behaviors; size can range from one person to a large organization, and influence can be positive or negative.

Informal group

A group formed by members' shared interests outside the formal organizational structure; can influence attitudes, norms, and communication.

Formal group

A group created by the organization as part of its formal structure; can be long-term (functional/command) or short-term (ad hoc).

Dyad

A group consisting of two members; the simplest form of group.

Task group

A group focused on a specific project or issue; can be short-term or long-term and may include members from various areas.

Functional group

A formal group organized by similar tasks within the organization (e.g., finance, HR, nursing services).

Command group

A formal group where members report to a single leader within the organizational hierarchy.

Ad hoc group

A temporary group formed to address a specific issue or problem, usually dissolving after task completion.

Multidisciplinary task force

A task group composed of members from multiple functional areas to address cross-cutting issues.

Forming

First stage of group development; members clarify purpose, establish norms, assign roles, and begin to understand the task.

Storming

Second stage of group development; heightened emotions as members claim power and question authority, leading to conflicts.

Norming

Third stage; cohesion grows, roles and rules are established, and group norms emerge.

Performing

Fourth stage; group members focus on the task, execute work, and operate efficiently.

Adjourning

Final stage; the group dissolves or members leave the group after the task is completed.

Group decision making

Process of reaching a judgment through input from multiple individuals; tends to take longer but can yield better, more creative solutions.

Rational decision-making process

A seven-stage model: (1) Problem definition (2) Identify alternatives (3) Gather information (4) Evaluate alternatives (5) Make the decision (6) Implementation (7) Feedback.

Stage 1 – Problem Definition

Clarify the problem and ensure understanding to support a high-quality decision.

Stage 2 – Identify Alternatives

Generate and consider diverse options; avoid limiting to a few ideas.

Stage 3 – Gather Information

Collect data on the consequences of each alternative to inform choices.

Stage 4 – Evaluate Alternatives

Objectively analyze options using criteria to prevent bias and dominance by higher-status members.

Stage 5 – Make the Decision

Choose a course of action, mindful of group dynamics and evidence.

Stage 6 – Implementation

Plan and execute the tasks and resources needed to implement the decision.

Stage 7 – Feedback

Evaluate outcomes to determine if goals were met and to learn for future decisions.

Psychological safety

A safe environment where members feel free to express ideas without fear of ridicule or punishment.

Diversity

Inclusion of varied experiences, knowledge, talents, cultures, and ages to enhance problem-solving and creativity.

Interdependence

The degree to which tasks require collaboration; higher interdependence supports better problem-solving.

Group potency

The shared belief that the group can be effective and achieve its goals.

Garbage can model

An irrational model of decision making where problems, solutions, and participants flow independently and align by chance to produce decisions.

Brainstorming

A technique to generate many ideas with minimal judgment; can be hindered by evaluation apprehension and social loafing; computer-based brainstorming can help.

Nominal Group Technique

A structured, five-step method for individual idea generation, round-robin recording, discussion, private ranking, and voting to select the best idea.

Delphi Technique

A series of written inquiries with experts to build consensus; iterative feedback continues until a solution prevails.