Groups

Question 1

What is a group?

Answer 1

A number of people drawn together for a natural and purposeful experience involving mutual interaction over a period of time.

Question 2

Key features of a group? (7)

Answer 2

• Interaction
• Interdependent
• Defined by themselves and other as belonging to the group.
• Shared interest and structure.
• Influence each other.
• Find the group rewarding in a need.
• Pursue common goals.

Question 3

Types of groups (2):

Answer 3

1) Primary groups.
2) Secondary groups.

For many people, primary group relations emerge from meeting people within a secondary group context.

Question 4

Primary groups:

Answer 4

A few people meet face to face for companionship, mutual aid, and the relationship is often personal.

Question 5

Secondary groups:

Answer 5

Relations are impersonal, rational, contractual & formal.

Question 6

Nature/types of groups (4):

Answer 6

• Assembled (e.g. at work).
• Dispersed (e.g. political party).
• Formal (i.e. with a permanent organisation or structure).
• Informal (i.e. assembling and dispersing, such as groups at a sporting fixture or party).

Question 7

Why do people join groups (5)?

Answer 7

• Co-operation (giving and receiving support).
• Goal accomplishment.
• To increase power and influence.
• Safety/security in numbers.
• They’re forced to.

Question 8

Concepts in group work (3)

Answer 8

1) Structure: the stable pattern of interaction between group members and their environment, over time.
2) Process: refers to development and change of the group over time.
3) Dynamics: refers to the forces, situations or events which lead to change or development.

Question 9

Group roles:

Answer 9

Differentiate the responsibilities of group members.

Question 10

Group norms:

Answer 10

Norms may be defined as rules, implicit or explicit, established by the group to regulate the behavior of its members.

Question 11

Group culture:

Answer 11

Refers to the long-term beliefs, values and customs that have built up over time in a group.

Question 12

Stages of group development (5):

Answer 12

1) Forming
2) Storming
3) Norming
4) Performing
5) Adjourning

In reality, groups have recurring/cyclical phases (process is influenced by dynamics).

Question 13

Forming definition (Tuckman 1977):

Answer 13

Team acquaints and establishes ground rules, Formalities are preserved and members are treated as strangers.

Question 14

Storming definition (Tuckman 1977):

Answer 14

Members start to communicate their feelings but still view themselves as individuals rather than part of the team. They resist control by group leaders and show hostility.

Question 15

Norming definition (Tuckman 1977):

Answer 15

People feel part of the team and realise they can achieve work if they accept other viewpoints.

Question 16

Performing definition (Tuckman 1977):

Answer 16

The team works in an open and trusting atmosphere where flexibility is the key and hierarchy is of little importance.

Question 17

Adjourning definition (Tuckman 1977):

Answer 17

The team conducts an assessment of the year and implements a plan for transitioning roles and recognising member’s contributions.

Question 18

5 elements of group effectiveness:

Answer 18

1. Positive interdependence (co-operation).
2. Individual accountability/personal responsibility.
3. Social skills.
4. Group processing (reflection and analysis).
5. Face to face interaction.

Cooperation, accountability/responsibility, social skills, reflection/analysis, interaction

Question 19

Types of groups facilitated by human service workers…

Answer 19

• Meetings, committees, etc
• Staff / work groups
• Community groups
• Social / support groups
• Educative groups
• Therapeutic groups
• Leisure / recreation groups
• Single issue groups
• Consciousness raising groups

Question 20

Types of groups a human service worker refers people to…

Answer 20

• Self help groups (e.g. Alcoholics Anonymous/AA)
• Political groups
• Social action groups
• Social / support groups