Chapter 7: Small Group Communication (Lessons 15 & 16) Flashcards
What are some benefits of groups?
-easier to complete tasks
-establish bonds
-create, maintain, change our sense of self
What can lead to negative group interactions?
lack of knowledge about group communication
Dyadic Communication
applied in two person interactions
Small Group Communication
interactions among three or more people connected through a common purpose
Internal Influences on Small Groups
-member characteristics (ie. roles)
External Influences on Small Groups
-group size, task, resources
How do size and structure affect group communication?
-the more people, the more scheduling and communication issues
Reachability
how one member is or is not connected to other group members
Decentralized Group Structure
-each group member is connected by to others
-makes coordination easy
Centralized Group Structure
-the central person is reachable by all group members
Shared group identity
formed around a shared goal and previous accomplishments
Instrumental Needs of Groups
-provide security and protection through increased numbers and accessible resourcces
Interpersonal Needs of Groups
-met by giving us inclusion, control, and support
Identity Needs of Groups
-reference for social comparison
-beliefs, attitudes, values, or cultural identities
Task-oriented Groups
-formed to solve problems, promote a cause, generate ideas or information
-ie. committee or study group
Types of task-oriented groups
groups can be used for production (ie. event group), discussion (ie. clinical group), problem solving (ie. debate team)
Relational-oriented groups
formed to promote interpersonal connections and focus on quality interactions
Teams
-task-oriented
-members are loyal to the task and other members
-have a clear goal/purpose
-clear roles
-coordinated efforts
-results driven
-external support
-ethical leadership
Groups
-goal, purpose, roles are not always clear
Virtual Groups
-work together using a video-conferencing program
-overcomes geographical struggles
Advantages of Small Groups
-shared decision making, resources
-synergy
-exposure to diversity
-expand social networks
Synergu
the potential for gains in performance or heightened quality of interactions
Disadvantages of Small Groups
-when highly specialized skills or knowledge are needed
-slowed decision making process
-coordination and planning conflicting schedules
-selfishness
In teams, tasks and goals usually can’t be achieved by __________ due to….
an individual due to constraints on time and resources
What are some examples of teams?
sports, healthcare, orchestras
Forming Stage
-group members reduce the uncertainty associated with new relationships or tasks
-foundation laid
-group cohesion formed
Group Cohesion
members’ commitment to the purpose of the group and the degree of attraction among the group
Storming Stage
-conflict emerges as people begin to perform their roles and negotiating where they fit in the group
-can lead to growth
Norming Stage
-the practices and expectations of the group are solidified
-leads to stability, productivity, cohesion
-vital for smooth operation
Group Norms
bring a sense of predictability and stability that allow the group to more on to the performing stage
Performing Stage
-group members work relatively smoothy toward completing a task or achieving a purpose
Adjourning Stage
when a group dissolves because it has completed its purpose or goal
Group Climate
the relatively enduring tone and quality of group interaction experienced
Task Cohesion
the commitment of group members to the purpose and activities of the group
Social Cohesion
the attraction and liking among group members
Advantages of Good Cohesion
-set goals easily
-high commitment
-more productive
-fewer attendance issues
-group perseverance
-satisfied members
-support and constructive criticism
-less anger and tension
Participation
members feel better when including in discussion and functioning
Messages
confirmation builds relational dimensions
Feedback
contributes to group climate
Equity
participation is managed equally
Clear and accepted roles
satisfaction with hierarchy and acceptance of roles
Motivation
activated by connection to goals and purpose
Symbolic Convergence
group consciousness that develops through non-task-related communication (ie. jokes)
Conformity
-a group pressure
-resistance due to disagreement or valid argument
Groupthink
a negative group phenomenon characterized by lack of critical evaluation of proposed ideas
What causes groupthink?
high cohesion and conformity pressure
Ways to avoid groupthink:
-divide decision-making power
-discussion
-reward minorities
-ideas submitted before discussion
-decisions reviewed by outside party
Procedural Conflict
-emerges from disagreements or trouble with operations
-differ in “how” beliefs
-can be resolved via vote
Substantive Conflict
-differing beliefs, attitudes, values, ideas related to a group task
Primary Tension
-when group first comes together
-based on uncertainty
-ice-breaker needed
Secondary Tension
-emerges after forming stage
-less reserved and polite behaviour
-lower tolerance threshold
Ways to manage small group conflict
-decision-making procedures
-third-party mediation
-leader facilitation
Tips for Conflict Management
-clarify the issue
-create a positive discussion
-discuss needs rather than solutions
-set boundaries
-“we” language
