GROUP DYNAMICS
OUTLINE
Outcomes
Objectives
Methodology
Introduction
Types of Groups
Steps in group formation
Characteristics of group members
Group size and participation
Factors affecting group cohesiveness
Outcomes
By the end of the theme participants will be able to:
Apply the steps of group formation
Effectively manage the growth of groups
Objectives
Define a group
Identify the characteristics of a group
Discuss the steps in group formation
GROUP
A group may be defined as a number of people who interact with one
another, are psychologically aware of one another and perceive
themselves as one. They are bound together by a distinctive set of
shared social relationship, membership and have an ability to act in a
unitary manner.
GROUP DYNAMICS
Group dynamics relates to questions as to the type of changes,
conditions under which they change and in which direction they
change. The changes in groups occur because of certain internal and
external forces. It relates to interaction, cohesiveness and disruptive or
driving and restraining forces observed in groups.
TYPES OF GROUPS
There are two types of groups:
A) Formal groups-Formal groups are based on
specified defined tasks to be undertaken. These
groups have laid down rules and regulations for
their administration and management.
B) Informal groups-Based on personal agreement of
the members. They serve to satisfy psychological
and social needs not related necessarily to the
task to be undertaken. They are formed by
members themselves rather than organizations.
REASONS FOR GROUP FORMATION
Groups are formed in order to:
1. Perform certain tasks which require the combined efforts of a
number of individuals working together
1
2. Provide individuals with opportunities for initiative ,creativity and
encourage cooperation between members
3. Provide companionship and a source of mutual understanding
and support from colleagues
4. Offer individuals with a sense of belonging
5. Provide guidelines on generally acceptable behavior
6. Offer protection for its members
7. Achieve common objectives and goals
GROUP DEVELOPMENT AND MATURITY
1. FORMING: This is the initial stage which usually starts with a
few individuals and is characterized by identifying the purpose ,
composition and leadership patterns of the group
2. STORMING; This stage is characterized by difference in ideas
from individual members and discussions revolve around
leadership patterns, norms, roles, goals, resources and
eventually consensus is reached. This is a critical stage and f
the group goes through this successfully, it will lead to a more
realistic objective setting, procedures and norms.
3. NORMING: This stage involves the development and
establishment of rules and regulations to govern/direct the group
4. PERFORMING; This is the stage where the group is able to plan,
implement and make informed decisions on its activities and
operations
5. ADJOURNING: Transition stage after the accomplishment of set
objectives
CHARACTERISTICS OF GROUP MEMBERS
Groups are made up of all kinds of people including:
1. Complainers- people who rarely find anything good in other
peoples views and decisions and are quick to complain
2. Know-it-alls-people who are always convinced their views are
right and often persuade others to follow them , sometimes
creating divisions within the group
3. Quiet members-people who rarely share their opinions and do
not want to take any responsibility or make decisions
4. Positive members-people who carefully consider ideas before
reaching their own view or opinion .They join in discussion and
share in decision making .These people are usually the
committed centre of the group.
5. Traditionists-people who dislike change or taking risks with
anything new
6. Bridge builders – people who like others to feel at peace with
each other and happy with decisions made. They take time to
sort out disagreements.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A FUNCTIONAL GROUP
Shared goals and objectives
A sense of commitment to the group
2
Acceptance of group values and norms
Mutual trust and dependency among members
Full participation of all members and decision making is by
consensus
Free flow of information
Open expression of feelings disagreements and the
resolution of conflict by members themselves
GROUP COHESIVENESS
Cohesiveness refers to all the forces that cause individuals to remain in
group’s .Factors affective group cohesiveness include:
Size of the group- as the group size increases, problems arise
with communication and co-ordination. Large groups are more
difficult to handle and require high level of supervision.
Compatibility-It is easier to promote group cohesiveness in a
homogenous group with common background, interest, attitude
and values. Cohesiveness is more likely when members of a
group are together for a reasonable length of time;
Work environment-Nature of the task-where workers are
involved in similar duties, share a common task or face the same
problems, it is easier to enhance cohesiveness-Physical setting:
Where members of a group work in the same location or close
proximity to each other, cohesiveness is easily achieved-
Communication: The more easily members communicate freely
with each other, the more likelihood of group cohesiveness.
Organization; This includes ;management and leadership,
personnel policies and procedures and external threats
Technology- messages are transmitted faster and more
effectively hence easy communication among group members
IMPORTANCE OF GROUP DYNAMICS
ADVANTAGES
More ideas are suggested when several people are making
decisions
Enhance wider view or perspective on issues
Provide opportunities for intellectual stimulation
People are more likely to understand why and how decisions are
made
Leads to high level of commitment to decisions made
Individual interests are easily realized
Allows for maximum utilization of resources
DISADVANTAGES
Some members may dominate discussion and deny other
members opportunity to contribute
Some people sabotage group activities
Pressure to avoid disagreement can lead to group dissolution,
when people choose not to disagree or raise objections.
3
BY:PAUL [Link]-0720641990