MODULE 2
Group Functions
• External Conditions affecting group functioning: Authority, Structure, Org. Resources, Organizational
policies etc.
• Internal conditions affecting group functioning: Roles, Norms, Conformity, Status, Cohesiveness,
Size, Inter group conflict.
• Group Cohesiveness and Group Conflict
• Adjustment in Groups
Internal Factors:
1. Status: is socially defined position or rank given to groups or group members by
others-permeates every society. High status members of groups often are given more
freedom to deviate from norms than are other group members. *High status people tend
to be more assertive. They speak out more often, criticise more, state more commands
and interrupts others more often.
2. Roles: By this term, we mean a set of expected behaviour patterns attributed to
someone occupying a given position in a social unit. When individual is confronted by
divergent role expectations, the result is role conflict so role clarity is very important
when it comes to smooth and effecient group functioning.
3. Norms: are acceptable standards of behaviour within a group that are shared by
group members. Norms acts a means of influencing the behaviour of group members
4. Conformity: is adjusting ones behaviour to align with the norms of the [Link] pressure
leads to conformity which in turn affects individual s judgement and attitude. As a member of a
group ,one desire acceptance by the group. Because of desire for acceptance conforming to the
group norms occurs.
5. Size: It affects groups behaviour. There are instances of smaller group being fast at
completing tasks than large one’s. But if a large group is involved in tasks like problem solving it
will fare well better than small group.
[Link] is the degree to which members are attracted to each other and are motivated
to stay in group. For example some work groups are cohesive because members have spent a
great deal of time together or groups small size facilitate high interaction
7. Internal group conflict refers to disagreements, tensions, or disputes that arise among
members within a group or team. These conflicts can occur in any organization or team setting,
whether in business, educational, or social environments. Managing such conflicts is essential for
maintaining harmony, productivity, and achieving the group's objectives.
External Factors that Influence Group Functioning
[Link]:
Authority plays a significant role in group functioning by establishing the power dynamics
within the group and between the group and the organization. It dictates who makes
decisions and how responsibilities are assigned. Authority figures (managers, leaders,
supervisors) provide guidance, direction, and conflict resolution, influencing how the
group operates and achieves its objectives.
2. Structure (Group or Organizational):
The structure of the group and the organization determines the hierarchy, roles, and
responsibilities within the group. Clear structures promote efficient communication and
task management, while poorly defined structures can lead to confusion, duplication of
work, or internal conflicts.
3. Organizational Resources:
Availability and allocation of resources such as technology, funding, training, and information significantly
influence group functioning. Adequate resources allow the group to perform efficiently and meet its goals,
while a lack of resources can hinder performance and create frustration among group members.
4. Organizational Policies:
Policies within an organization provide guidelines for group behavior, decision-making, and problem-
solving. These policies may relate to communication, conflict resolution, project management, and
performance evaluations. Clear and supportive policies can enhance group efficiency, while rigid or
unclear policies can create barriers to effective group functioning.
5. Organizational Culture:
The culture of an organization, including its values, norms, and attitudes, has a profound influence on
group dynamics. A culture that promotes openness, innovation, and inclusivity fosters positive group
functioning, while a culture that emphasizes competition and rigidity may lead to internal conflicts or
disengagement.
External Environment:
•External factors such as economic conditions, market trends, regulatory requirements,
and competition influence how groups within an organization function. These external
pressures can affect group priorities, deadlines, and strategies.
Leadership Style:
•The leadership style within the group and the broader organization can significantly
impact group functioning. Transformational leadership encourages creativity and
collaboration, while autocratic leadership may limit participation and innovation.
Group Cohesiveness
Group cohesiveness refers to the extent to which members of a group
stick together and remain united in the pursuit of common goals.
Cohesive groups are characterized by strong interpersonal bonds,
mutual support, and a shared sense of purpose. Cohesiveness often
results in higher morale, better communication, and increased group
performance.
Factors influencing group cohesiveness
•Common Goals: When group members share similar objectives, it
strengthens their unity.
•Interpersonal Attraction: Strong interpersonal relationships within
the group contribute to cohesiveness.
•Size of the Group: Smaller groups tend to be more cohesive, as
personal interactions are more frequent.
•Competition and Success: Cohesiveness can grow when a group
experiences success or when it competes with other groups.
Group Conflict
Group conflict arises when there are disagreements or clashes between members of a
group due to differing views, interests, or personalities. Conflicts can be constructive
(leading to improved understanding and problem-solving) or destructive (causing
dysfunction and division).
Types of Conflict
Task Conflict: Disagreements over how tasks should be completed or differences in
approaches to achieving group objectives.
Relationship Conflict: Tensions and personal clashes between group members,
which can harm group dynamics.
Process Conflict: Disagreements over the delegation of tasks or group roles.
Adjustment in Groups
Adjustment in groups refers to how members adapt their behaviors,
roles, and interactions to fit the dynamics of the group. It involves
aligning personal goals with group objectives, resolving conflicts, and
finding ways to cooperate more effectively.
Successful adjustment in groups often leads to smoother
communication, effective conflict resolution, and better performance,
fostering a positive environment where all members can contribute
towards the group's success.