1 Introduction to Group Dynamics Group dynamics are

1 Introduction to Group Dynamics Group dynamics are the influential actions, processes, and changes that occur within and between groups. Groups come in all shapes and sizes and their functions are many and varied, but their influence is universal. The tendency to join with others in groups is perhaps the single most important characteristic of humans, and the processes that unfold within these groups leave an indelible imprint on their members and on society. To understand people, one must understand groups and their dynamics. v What is a group? v What are some common characteristics of groups? v Are there different types of groups, and do people distinguish between these groups? v What assumptions guide researchers in their studies of groups and their dynamics? v Why study groups and their dynamics? v What topics are included in the scientific study of group dynamics?

Introduction to Group Dynamics Preview The Nature of Groups The Nature of Group Dynamics Defining Groups The Scientific Study of Groups Describing Groups A Multilevel Approach to the Study of Groups Types of Groups The Significance of Groups Perceiving Groups Topics in Contemporary Group Dynamics is Dynamic

The Nature of Groups Defining Groups Two or more individuals who are connected by and within social But note: As social identity theory Out explains, in many cases broad social categories can become psychologically meaningful In to members, and in those cases social categories function very much like dynamic, socially based groups relationships. Ø Members are connected—linked—together; ØØ Unlike networks, categories, members usually are have socially Ø Groups vary in size from groups dyads and triads to these relationships memberships boundaries connected, that not are just define in as the who same is inand grouping the group very large aggregations, such mobs and or collection who is not(e. g. , all men, bricklayers…) audiences.

Ø Ø Ø Interaction Goals The Nature of Groups DESCRIBING GROUPS Interdependence Structure Unity

DESCRIBING GROUPS Ø Ø Ø Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity Interaction: What people do in groups Relationship interaction (sustaining relationships, encouraging others, complaining, etc. ). Task interaction (problem solving, providing guidance, coordination, etc. ).

Ø Ø Ø DESCRIBING GROUPS Mc. Grath’s Circumplex Model of group tasks is based on 2 key dimensions: Choosing vs. Executing (Doing) and Generating vs. Negotiating Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity Generate Execute Choose Negotiate

Mc. Grath’s task circumplex

DESCRIBING GROUPS Ø Ø Ø Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity Interdependence: The state of being dependent to some degree on other people

DESCRIBING GROUPS Structure: The underlying pattern of roles, norms, and relations among members that organizes groups Ø Ø Ø Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity

DESCRIBING GROUPS Group cohesion Entitativity: Perceived to be a group Thomas Theorem applied to groups Ø Ø Ø Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity • Unity • Strength of bonds • Common fate • Similarity • Proximity • If people define groups as real, they are real in their consequences • Essentialism

The Nature of Groups TYPES OF GROUPS Primary groups Social groups Collectives Categories

TYPES OF GROUPS Perceiving groups: people intuitively draw distinctions between groups—some look groupier than others Primary groups Social groups Collectives Categories 1 (not at all a group) to 9 (very much a group)

Introduction to Group Dynamics The Nature of Groups Definition The Nature … a "field of inquiry to of Group dedicated advancing Dynamics knowledge about the nature of groups" Are Groups Real? Are Real? (Cartwright & Zander, 1968, p. 7). Characteristics Types Are Groups Dynamic? Are Dynamic? The Multilevel Perspective The Perspective Applications and Topics “Doc” Cartwright Alvin Zander

Are Groups Real? Gustave Le Bon, Psychologie des Foules Varying perspectives on the reality of groups Wilhelm Wundt, Volkerpsychologie Emile Durkheim, collective consciousness Floyd Allport, level of analysis Kurt Lewin, interactionism B = f (P, E)

The Nature of Group Dynamics Groups influence their members Groups influence society Groups are living systems Are Groups Dynamic?

The Nature of Group Dynamics Individual level: focus on the individual (psychological) Group level: focus on the group and social context (sociological) Multilevel: adopts multiple perspectives on groups The Multilevel Perspective

The Nature of Group Dynamics Applications and Topics • • Interdisciplinary • Applications • • Anthropology Business & Industry Criminal justice Engineering Political Science Social Work Sports & Recreation Architecture Communication Education Mental Health Psychology Sociology • Topics • • Formation & Development Influence De tail s Performance Groups in Context

Topics Introduction to Group Dynamics Research Methods Inclusion & Identity Group Formation Cohesion and Structure Influence Power Leadership Performance Decision Making Teams Conflict within and between groups Groups in Context Groups and Change Crowds and Collective Behavior Development

Welcome to the Study of Groups! The Nature of Groups The Nature of Group Dynamics Definition Are Groups Real? Characteristics Are Groups Dynamic? Types The Multilevel Perspective Applications and Topics