ESSAY Chapter 9
1.Identify the stages of group development in Tuckman’s 5-stage model, and briefly discuss thedifferences between the 5-stage model and Gersick’s punctuated equilibrium model.ANS:Tuckman’s 5-stage model suggests groups progress through five stages of development, whichinclude forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning. Groups evolve through thestages in a sequential fashion with predictable behaviors associated with each stage. Gersick’smodel suggests the 5-stage model may be unrealistic. Gersick proposes that groups do notnecessarily progress linearly from one step to another in a predetermined sequence, but alternate between periods of inertia and bursts of energy as work groups develop.2.What factors of a group work situation affect cohesiveness?ANS: Numerous factors can positively and negatively influence cohesiveness; some of these are size or number of employees, length of time for task accomplishment and length of time the group istogether, external pressures, organization, location and prestige of the group, group norms,internal competitive behavior, and closeness of supervision. Large groups (more than 25 to 30employees) may inhibit the development of cohesiveness. The longer the time period for groupdevelopment, the greater the cohesiveness. External pressures (in the form of close supervision)could accelerate development of cohesion. The higher the prestige, the more likely cohesivenesswill develop. Strong group norms also increase cohesiveness. However, internal competitive behavior may hinder cohesiveness.3.Distinguish between and provide examples of task and maintenance functions of groups.ANS:Task functions related to getting the job done, the problem solved, and/or evaluating results.Seeking and distributing information, assembling and coordinating resources, diagnosing the problem, assigning personnel, and controlling work activities are task functions. Maintenancefunctions involve keeping the group operating in positive ways and retaining individuals or groupmembers. Mutual support, tension reduction, conflict resolution, and enforcing group norms aremaintenance functions.4.Identify and briefly discuss the four distinguishing characteristics of a mature (well-functioning)group.ANS:The distinguishing characteristics includes (1) a clear purpose and mission, (2) well-understoodnorms and standards of conduct, (3) a high level of group cohesion, and (4) a flexible statusstructure. Stating the purpose in terms specific goals enhances productivity over and above any performance benefits achieved through individual goal setting. Behavioral norms for high performance and productivity set above organizational norms characterizes high performing work groups. Smaller groups tend to be more cohesive than large groups, and cohesion based onattraction results in effective control over members with respect to important performance norms.Successful resolution of authority issues within a group result in a well understood statusstructure. This contributes to group functioning.
Leave a Comment