Small Group Communication

What is group identification?

A person sees themselves as part of a group, making membership important to their self-identity.

Define in-group.

The people who constitute a group; members appear similar in important criteria for inclusion.

What is an out-group?

The perceived nonmembers of the group; they appear different from group members in important criteria for exclusion.

What is the relational focus of a group?

The group is focused on relationships rather than specific tasks, often seen in friendships and families.

What does task focus mean in group dynamics?

Members work together to accomplish a specific goal or task.

What are the stages of small group development?

Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, and Adjourning.

What happens during the forming stage?

Members orient themselves to one another and develop a shared understanding of relationships.

Describe the storming stage.

Members experience minor conflict and take sides, responding emotionally to one another.

What occurs in the norming stage?

A resolution to conflict emerges, and members develop a sense of shared goals and roles.

What is the focus during the performing stage?

The group focuses on the task at hand with smooth interactions towards a common goal.

What is the adjourning stage?

It occurs when groups end and individuals separate, terminating group activity.

What is conformity in group processes?

Behaving in a way consistent with other group members, often due to peer pressure.

Define groupthink.

A condition where individuals are discouraged from expressing dissent or differing opinions.

What are the three symptoms of groupthink?

Overestimation of the group, closed-mindedness, and pressures toward uniformity.

What is collective information sampling (CIS) bias?

The tendency to discuss information already known to many or all group members.

What is unshared information?

Information known to only one or a few members of a decision-making group.

What does consensus pressure refer to?

The compulsion to agree with the group in making a final decision.

What is social loafing?

When under-engaged members benefit from the group without contributing effort.

What are the five key areas for improving group communication?

Goal Setting, Agenda Setting, Deliberation and Participation, Roles, and Networks.

What should be considered in goal setting for a group?

The purpose of the group, understanding of goals by members, and alignment of activities with goals.

What is the role of an information giver in a group?

Offers facts, beliefs, personal experiences, and other inputs.

Define the role of a harmonizer.

Seeks to smooth over tension within the group.

What is the function of a gatekeeper in group roles?

Works to keep each member involved in discussions.

What does centrality refer to in group communication networks?

The degree to which an individual sends and receives messages from others in the group.

What is an innovation network?

A communication pattern focused on discussing new ideas and directions.

What are task networks?

Defined by the job or work at hand within a group.