Common Group Conflicts

Instructions: Below are several common problems groups face that create group conflict. (1) For about the first !/2 of the class period, brainstorm ways any group might deal effectively with each problem. (2) Discuss this question: "Which of these problems have we faced (or that we still face) and what are we going to do about it?" (3) Last, we will discuss each problem (& any others you may think of) and possible solutions in the last !/2 of the class period. 1. A Group Member Won't Speak In Meetings: In this situation, the member attends all meetings and does her/his share of the work, but does not orally contribute in any group meetings. What can the group do about this situation? 2. A Group Member Verbally Monopolizes Each Group Meeting: In this situation, the member seems to know everything about everything. He/she gains the floor to speak and talks incessantly. Most often, the member says pertinent things about the task at hand, but can go astray into irrelevant topics. What can the group do about this situation? 3. A Group Member Misses About !/2 Or More Of All Group Meetings: In this situation, the member participates well when present at group meetings and acts as if nothing is wrong with missing the other meetings. What can the group do about this situation? 4. Some Group Members Have Trouble Treating The Task Seriously And Are Too Social In Group Meetings: In this situation, one or two members are having trouble getting motivated. They like the group and the entire group gets along well, but progress on achieving the group's task has been made by a minority of members. A sub-grouping of "workers" and "partiers" is developing. What can the group do about this situation? 5. The Group Has NEVER Had A Meeting With ALL Group Members Present: This group is frustrated by conflicting schedules. Most members want to meet, but other, nongroup activities have taken precedent to working on the group's task. What can the group do about this situation? 6. A Feud Or Conflict Has Developed Between Two Group Members: In this situation, the entire group is aware of the problem, and even talk about it outside of group meetings, but it remains an unspoken tension that permeates each meeting. What can the group do about this situation?
Conflict Handout