Group dynamics - Term Paper Example

Purpose of a group forms its background and the process through which this is achieved makes it operational. Team is structured, requires coordinated interaction to reach the set goal and all the members stand responsible for its activities. A congregation of individuals qualifies to be called a group based on Kurt Lewin’s parameters, which specify that the members should interact, are interdependent, influence each other, the members feel belongingness, have a structure, work towards a common goal and are recognised as a group by others.

Task and relationship-based interactions develop in groups, through which people connect and affect each other. 2. Group as a social system Groups are social entities with a membership of 2 or more persons. They are viewed as units of socialization, interaction, centres of intellect and learning. Group is a locus for connecting with people and hangers for emotional support. People group in order to support the realisation that they share similar ideologies. Interdependence and cooperation, which are interpersonal and social qualities are essential for the formation of groups.

They never exist in vacuum, but are related and dependent on other groups. Groups may be classified as primary or secondary(classified by Charles Horton Cooley) and planned or emergent ones. Close and personal interactions occur frequently among primary group members. They form the basis for socialising and platform for showcasing the ideas, values and opinions of members. Secondary or nucleated groups are sized big, formal and the size may not permit one-to-one relation among members. They are help members socialise, but not as much as primary groups.

Planned groups work for a common goal. Their formation is initiated from an exterior source, organisation or individual or other groups. Emergent groups, as the name suggests, emerge as the people find themselves bound by circumstances, location or situation (Corey, Corey, and Corey ). T-groups, a proposition by Kurt Lewin, are interpersonal training groups, that facilitate bonding among members, building trust and interact on both work-related and personal issues. The source of learning and improvement is feedback from the other members of the team. 3. Group Development In order to comprehend group dynamics, it is important to study the process and theories related to their development (Forsyth ).

Lot of studies and research addressed the concept. Tubb has phased group development into orientation, conflict, consensus and closure and Fisher suggested orientation, conflict, emergence and reinforcement model. Bruce Tuckman suggested 4 stages of group development, which consists of forming, storming, norming and performing. Adjourning has been appended later. a. Forming During this phase, individuals mingle with each other and communicate, in an attempt to arrive at their purpose of association.

They assess their respective comfort zones. Leaders play a vital role in facilitating this understanding and walking them towards the next stage. b. Storming Here, the members share their views, assemble with others sharing similar thoughts and socialise. Leader persuades them to open up and streamlines their ideas, differences etc towards the group goals. Socialisation is the process of adaptation of the members to the purpose, situation and other members. Active involvement on the part of members is crucial at this stage.