Cohesion and Group Dynamics Flashcards
Define group
a collection of two or more people who interact to influence and be influenced by others.
Give some group characteristics
- Collective identity
- Shared purpose
- Structured communication
- Personal/task interdependence
- Interpersonal attraction
Where do roles evolve from
the group dynamics, or interactions among group members.
When can role conflict occur
no role clarity and acceptance or
the role occupant doesn’t have the sufficient ability, motivation, time or situational understanding needed.
What are the 5 stages of group development
Forming Storming Norming Performing Adjourning
What does the cyclical perspective of group dynamics suggest
The focus is on the terminal phase of the group’s existence. As the group develops, it psychologically prepares for its own breakup.
What does the pendular perspective of group dynamics suggest
Shifts occur in interpersonal relationships during the growth and development of groups, not in a linear way.
What are the pendular stages of group development
- Orientation
- Differentiation and conflict
- Resolution and cohesion
- Differentiation and conflict
- Termination
Give 3 ways to build an effective team climate
- Social support
- Proximity
- Distinctiveness
- Fairness
- Similarity
- Team Building Exercises
What is Steiner’s model of group productivity
Actual Productivity =
Potential Productivity – Co-ordination losses due to faulty processes
What does Steiner’s model show
Teams with fewer interactions are less likely to suffer losses in productivity due to faulty group processes, compared to highly interactive sports.
What is the Ringlemann Effect
Individual performance decreases as the number of people in the group increases.
Describe social loafing
Individuals within a group experience a loss of motivation and don’t put forwards maximal effort.
What may cause social loafing
- Individuals own output cannot be evaluated
- Belief the task is not meaningful
- Comparison against group standards not available
- Other individuals in the group are strangers
- Lack of accountability as the performer is not clear about their role and its value within the team
- Performance not recognised/valued by the coach
- Perceived/actual low ability
- Lack of self-confidence
Give 3 strategies to reduce social loafing
- Individual player stats e.g. goals scored as this means the player feels appreciated and evaluated
- Make sure the individual understands the importance of their contribution
- Set individual targets as this gives the player something specific to focus on
- To ensure fitness levels are high so players don’t need to take a rest
- Select team players who from past-experience are less likely to socially loaf
- Punish social loafers
- Organise socialising activities
- Enhance the cohesiveness of the group
Define cohesion
The tendency of a group to stay together to achieve a common goal.
What are the two types of cohesion
Task and Social
Define task cohesion
The degree to which group members work together to achieve common goals and objectives
Define social cohesion
The interpersonal attractions among group members
Describe Carron’s model of cohesion
Environmental factors effect personal and leadership factors. These then influence team factors which leads to cohesion. Cohesion then results in both group and individual outcomes
Give 3 strategies to promote team cohesion
Creating a distinctive identity for the team e.g. name or kit
Participative leadership style
Good coach/team communication
Select team players and drop non-cohesive players
Set a code of conduct agreed by the team
Build in time together e.g. by team building exercises
Avoid too many team changes
