Group dynamics shape how we communicate in teams. From forming to performing, groups evolve through stages, each with unique challenges. Understanding these stages helps us navigate conflicts and build stronger connections with our teammates.

Roles, norms, and cohesion are key elements of group communication. By recognizing different roles and establishing clear norms, we can boost productivity and avoid pitfalls like groupthink. Building cohesion through open, supportive communication creates a safe space for creativity and growth.

Group characteristics and types

Defining groups and comparing to dyads

• A group is three or more individuals who interact, influence one another, and perceive a shared identity
• Dyads (two people) have different dynamics than groups, such as easier consensus and fewer coalitions

Primary and secondary groups

• Primary groups are intimate, long-term groups that shape self-concept and social identity (family, close friends)
• Secondary groups are larger, more formal, and less personal (work teams, community organizations)

Functions and categories of groups

• Groups serve instrumental goals to accomplish tasks and make decisions
• Groups fulfill interpersonal needs for inclusion and belonging
• Groups can be categorized as task-oriented, relational-oriented, or a combination based on purpose and goals

In-groups, out-groups, and intergroup dynamics

• In-groups are social groups an individual strongly identifies with and feels a sense of belonging
• Out-groups are perceived as separate or different from one's in-group
• In-group favoritism and out-group bias can lead to stereotyping and intergroup conflict

Reference groups and social comparison

• Reference groups serve as a point of comparison in shaping attitudes, values and behaviors
• Aspirational reference groups represent ideals that one strives to emulate, even if not a member

Group development stages

Forming: orientation and acquaintance

• The group first comes together and begins establishing goals, roles and norms
• Communication tends to be polite and superficial as members get acquainted

Storming: conflict and confrontation

• Intragroup conflict emerges due to differences in personalities, goals and working styles
• Criticism, confrontation and coalitions are common until issues are resolved

Norming: cohesion and cooperation

• The group becomes more cohesive, establishes norms and procedures
• Focuses on cooperation to accomplish goals with open, supportive, task-oriented communication

Performing: maturity and productivity

• The peak of group development with clear vision, flexible problem-solving, effective task completion
• Communication is interdependent with fluid interchange of roles as needed

Adjourning: dissolution and closure

• The group dissolves after accomplishing its purpose
• Key communication tasks are evaluating outcomes, giving recognition, managing emotions

Regression and adaptability

• Groups may regress to earlier stages if faced with new challenges, membership changes, or unresolved conflicts
• Flexibility in communication is needed to adapt and maintain productivity

Roles and norms in groups

Types and functions of group roles

• Roles are expected behaviors that guide how members should communicate and interact
• Roles can be formally assigned or emerge informally based on personality and group needs
• Task roles focus on accomplishing objectives (initiating, giving information, elaborating, coordinating)
• Relationship roles maintain social cohesion (supporting, harmonizing, tension-releasing, encouraging participation)

Dysfunctional roles and group performance

• Dysfunctional roles hinder group effectiveness (dominating, blocking, recognition-seeking, distracting, withdrawing)
• Groups need to communicate expectations clearly to reduce dysfunctional behavior

Leadership and communication

• Leaders shape communication by setting agendas, managing participation, mediating conflicts, external liaising
• Leadership styles range from authoritarian to democratic to laissez-faire

Formation and reinforcement of group norms

• Norms are informal expectations that regulate behavior and communication (speaking time, decision procedures, confidentiality, attendance, technology use)
• Norms typically form early through explicit statements, critical events, or primacy of behavior
• Norms are reinforced by communication rewarding conformity and sanctioning deviance

Group cohesion and productivity

Cohesion and its influencing factors

• Cohesion is the strength of bonds, belonging, and commitment to collective goals
• Cohesive groups tend to have higher morale, participation and productivity
• Smaller, homogeneous groups experience greater cohesion due to intimate interactions, shared backgrounds, common goals
• Larger, diverse groups need to actively build cohesion through communication

Task characteristics and motivation

• Clear purpose, interdependent tasks, team-based rewards develop stronger cohesion and motivation
• Social loafing can occur when individual contributions are not identifiable or valued

Communication and cohesion-building

• Frequent, supportive communication through multiple channels builds cohesion
• Creates shared identity, norms, emotional connections
• Constructive conflict resolution enhances trust and respect

Groupthink and defective decision-making

• Groupthink is dysfunctional cohesion with pressures for conformity, illusions of invulnerability, self-censorship
• Leads to defective decisions and unethical actions due to lack of critical thinking

Psychological safety and group learning

• The shared belief that a group is safe for interpersonal risks (dissent, admitting mistakes, asking for help)
• Built through inclusive, non-judgmental communication
• Key for enabling creativity, experimentation and learning from failures