group dynamics

group dynamics - refers to the processes that occur within the group that we belong to (ingroup) & the interactions between ingroup & outgroup (inter-group processes)

important to remember that a group’s behaviour is influenced by the ppl within the group

  • but some ppl believe that individuals’ behaviour changes once they’re in a group

  • so group behaviour is the result of interaction between group members & the importance they provide to group’s membership

group mind - is a phenomenon where the power of the group is so strong that it shapes individual’s behaviour & causes them to engage in actions and behaviours they previously never would hv engaged with

  • everyone basically acts as one, and each group member loses individuality

being part of a group could also free members from social responsibility & the need to act in a socially responsible manner

social exchange theory - ppl want to join groups that provide them with maximum reward

past experiences are also a factor in choosing ingroup - positive experiences with similar groups in the past, would encourage individuals to select similar groups in the future

choosing groups is important to us, cuz groups construct our identity & self-esteem

if goals aren’t shared between groups, competition & conflict are more likely to occur

realistic group conflict theory - inter-group conflict can arise when groups hv conflicting goals & are competing for limited resources

  • if one group succeeds in obtaining the resources, the other group is affected

  • if groups are pursuing a subordinate (common) goal & they need to cooperate in order to succeed, this cooperation can help overcome prejudice & discrimination

theory of group position - when members of an ingroup believe they’re entitled to certain resources & they perceive an outgroup trying to make claims to these resources, conflict & competition can arise

social dominance theory - i think its smthg about how ppl want to be able to dominate a society

terror management theory - can textbook for this