1. Communication in Small Groups
Chapter 9

2. Overview
Presentations
Journal #8 analysis and discussion

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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