Ch 7.1 Flashcards
What is a group in behavioural science?
Two or more people interacting interdependently to achieve a common goal.
What are the two key aspects of a group?
Interaction and interdependence.
Why is group membership important?
Groups shape beliefs, values, and behaviours and provide a way to influence others.
What are formal work groups?
Groups created by organizations to achieve organizational goals.
What are common types of formal work groups?
Manager-employee groups, task forces, project teams, and committees.
What are informal groups?
Groups that form naturally based on common interests, not organizational design.
What are the five stages of group development?
Forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning.
What happens in the forming stage?
Members try to understand their roles and purpose in the group.
What happens in the storming stage?
Conflict arises as members sort out roles and responsibilities.
What happens in the norming stage?
Members resolve conflicts, agree on norms, and become cohesive.
What happens in the performing stage?
The group focuses on task completion with high cooperation and creativity.
What happens in the adjourning stage?
Temporary groups disband, often with ceremonies or emotional support.
What is the punctuated equilibrium model?
A model where groups go through stable phases interrupted by critical transitions.
What are the three phases of punctuated equilibrium?
Phase 1 (slow progress), Midpoint Transition (strategy change), and Phase 2 (task completion).
What is key advice for managing groups with deadlines?
Prepare for the first meeting, manage the midpoint transition carefully, and avoid deadline changes
