Communication in Small Groups Chapter 9

Overview Presentations Journal #8 analysis and discussion

Journal 8 Over time, how has your group grown and developed? Reference Table 9.1 in GIS and explore how your group’s behavior relates to the different developmental stages.

Typical characteristics of groups in different developmental phases Group Characteristic Formed Spont. Pre-Configured Disinte- grating Insular Mature Norms Procedural/relational none incomplete, not understood contested conforming to elaborate rules norms evolving but understood Commitment/effort moderate low extreme high Power Member roles pre-set, limited acceptance chaotic clearly defined and inflexible established but adjustable Power relations externally determined rigid and unquestioned legitimate and accountable Comm. Symbolic representation provisional pre-set but not embraced rigid and limiting creative/flexible convergence Information sharing uneven hoarding and deception focus on info. already shared effective distribution At ts . Group cohesion non-existent Non-conscious processes unrecognized overwhelming destructive force obsessive attraction/bonds controlled/ harnessed

Growth/Learning in EST Framework Cooperative vs. competitive group task Degree of ambiguity in group structure (roles, procedural norms) Group cohesion/ mutual trust Participants’ willingness to express emotion and engage in conflict Participants’ personal emotional/psychological histories and health Non-directive/ interpretive group leadership Self-disclosure and emotional processing Dramatic role playing and self-expression Direct confrontation of emotional conflict Group/social skill Knowledge/ understanding of topics (health, etc.) Awareness of own and group’s non-conscious behavior Self-esteem/ confidence Support for group leadership training Collaborative, competitive, or individualistic work/reward system Cultural emphasis on personal development General recognition of non-conscious processes