Group Dynamics and Intergroup Relations
Group dynamics studies the interaction within groups and the process of problem-solving and decision-making to gain understanding and to solve organizational problems. It is the scientific study of the interaction within small groups. In order to solve the organizational problems, Bales a renowned scholar developed a method for studying the interaction within a small problem-solving group. The three-stage sequence could be recognized in the problem-solving process:
a) Orientation stage in which members ask and give information
b) Evaluation Stage in which members assess information and share opinions
c) Control stage in which members suggest solutions and reach the conclusions
Group dynamics means transformation from one stage to another. Workgroups are the primary means through which the activities of an organization are carried out with collaboration. Groups can be of various types: Primary, secondary, tertiary, temporary, permanent, etc. Each group has a certain structure. This is the network of relationships and communication patterns among group members.
Moreno has developed the ‘sociogram and ‘sociometry’ scale in order to measure the social relationships in small homogeneous groups. It measures the social distance and closeness between and among the members of a particular. However, on the basis of the degree of formation and relative permanency, the groups can be formal and informal in character.
Factors affecting Group Relations
1. Composition:
Characteristics of interacting members affect the relationship and affect the number of resources available to perform a task. A higher degree of similarities in terms of class, ethnicity, religion, occupation, age and sex composition, and homogeneous character enhances group work more conveniently and helps to determine the productivity of the group. Here, homogeneity means similar characteristics in regard to academic grooming, occupation, class similarity, and similarity, likes and dislikes, etc.
2. Size:
Group size also affects relationships and tasks. A higher number of group members could be more beneficial if group members are assigned individual tasks. Therefore, the influence and effect of size depend on the nature of the task. Sometimes two to three members could be very effective. Some scholars suggest that members in a group should be odd in numbers for effective output and decision-making.
3. Norms
Norms mean a set of rules agreed upon. They are the cultural standards mediated through social values and the social code of conduct. on the basis of functioning and relations, it includes both prescriptive (do’s) and prescriptive (don’ts) for the behavioral patterns.
4.Cohesiveness
Simply, it is the commitment to stick together. Attraction and motivation towards collective good make people remain together. Integrity, solidarity and emotional attachment bind the members together. The composition and norms of the groups, changing trends of behavioral patterns of the members play also an important role to continue or leaving the group accordingly. Hence, the social group is a collection of individuals who have been formed for the collective good. Same sentiment and goals, trust, the similarity in lifestyles cement the relationships.
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