The Nature of Groups

What is a group?
A small

collection of people who interact with

each other, usually face to face, over time in
order to reach goals.

Components
Interaction

amongst members
Interdependence
Time
Size

Three people to seven to 20

Smallest number capable of performing the task

Goals of groups
Individual

goals

Task orientation: getting the job done

Social orientation:
Sense

of belonging
Exercise influence
Gain liking

Goals of Groups, cont.

Group

goals

Individuals goals must match group goals

Hidden agenda

Types of Groups
Learning

groups
Growth groups
Problem solving groups
Social groups

Characteristics of Groups
Rules:

explicit, officially stated guidelines

Norms: unstated rules

Social norms
Procedural norms
Task norms

Characteristics of Groups, cont.

Roles:

norms define group standards, while

roles govern behavior

Formal roles: assigned to establish order

Informal roles
Task

roles: helps group accomplish goals

Social roles: maintenance, concerned with relationships

Pattern of Interaction
All

channel Network
Wheel Network
Chain Network

Decision Making Methods

Consensus:

all members of a group support

a decision
Majority rule
Expert opinion
Minority control
Authority rule

Culture & Group Communication

Individualism

vs. Collectivism
Power distance: degree to which members
are willing to accept a difference in power
and status among members
Uncertainty avoidance
Task vs. Social Orientation
Short vs. Long Term Orientation