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A small group requires a minimum of three people (because two people would be a pair or dyad), but the upper range of group size is contingent on the purpose of the group. When groups grow beyond fifteen to twenty members, it becomes difficult to consider them a small group based on the previous definition.
- 5.1: Understanding Small Groups – Sociological Communication
A small group requires a minimum of three people (because...
- 5.1: Understanding Small Groups – Sociological Communication
Small groups are important communication units in academic, professional, civic, and personal contexts. Several characteristics influence small groups, including size, structure, interdependence, and shared identity. In terms of size, small groups must consist of at least three people, but there is no set upper limit on the number of group members.
- Structure of Small Groups
- Group Cohesion and Climate
- Socializing Group Members
- Group Pressures
- Conformity
- Groupthink
- Group Conflict
- Managing Conflict in Small Groups
Any time a group of people comes together, new dynamics are put into place that differ from the dynamics present in our typical dyadic interactions (Sidorenkov, 2013). The impressions we form about other people’s likeability and the way we think about a group’s purpose are affected by the climate within a group that is created by all members. Group...
When something is cohesive, it sticks together, and the cohesion within a group helps establish an overall group climate. refers to the relatively enduring tone and quality of group interaction that is experienced similarly by group members. To understand better cohesion and climate, we can examine two types of cohesion: task and social. Task cohes...
refers to the process of teaching and learning the norms, rules, and expectations associated with group interaction and group member behaviors. Group norms, rules, and cohesion can only be created and maintained through socialization (Ahuja & Galvin, 2003). It is also through socialization that a shared identity and social reality develops among gr...
There must be some kind of motivating force present within groups in order for the rules and norms to help govern and guide a group. Without such pressure, group members would have no incentive to conform to group norms or buy into the group’s identity and values. In this section, we will discuss how rules and norms gain their power through interna...
In general, some people are more likely to accept norms and rules than others are, which can influence the interaction and potential for conflict within a group. While some people may feel a need for social acceptance that leads them to accept a norm or rule with minimal conformity pressure, others may actively resist because they have a valid disa...
is a negative group phenomenon characterized by a lack of critical evaluation of proposed ideas or courses of action that results from high levels of cohesion and/or high conformity pressures (Janis, 1972). We can better understand groupthink by examining its causes and effects. When group members fall victim to groupthink, the effect is uncritical...
Conflict can appear in indirect or direct forms within group interaction, just as it can in interpersonal interactions. Group members may openly question each other’s ideas or express anger toward or dislike for another person. Group members may also indirectly engage in conflict communication through innuendo, joking, or passive-aggressive behavio...
Some common ways to manage conflict include clear decision-making procedures, third-party mediation, and leader facilitation (Ellis & Fisher, 1994). Decision-making is discussed in more detail in Chapter 14 “Leadership, Roles, and Problem Solving in Groups”, but commonly used methods such as majority vote can help or hurt conflict management effort...
Small group communication is the interaction of a small group of people to achieve an interdependent goal. The various elements of this definition imply several things: “Small” implies that each member of the group is aware of the other members of the group and reacts to each as an individual.
- Size of Small Groups. The ideal small group has no set number of members. A small group requires a minimum of three people (because two people would be a pair or dyad), but the upper range of group size is contingent on the purpose of the group.
- Structure of Small Groups. Internal and external influences affect a group’s structure. In terms of internal influences, member characteristics play a role in initial group formation.
- Interdependence. Small groups exhibit interdependence, meaning they share a common purpose and a common fate. If the actions of one or two group members lead to a group deviating from or not achieving their purpose, then all members of the group are affected.
- Shared Identity. The shared identity of a group manifests in several ways. Groups may have official charters or mission and vision statements that lay out the identity of a group.
Explore communication, characteristics and functions of small groups. Explore group development formation and its various stages. Explore group cohesion, climate, socialization, conformity and groupthink. Explore the relationship between conflict and cohesion in the work environment. Explore strategies for managing group conflict.
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Apr 28, 2024 · Small group communication is a dynamic process that involves sharing ideas, collaborating, and fostering meaningful interactions within a limited number of participants. Starting small group communication requires careful planning and effective facilitation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you initiate successful small group ...
