group dynamics

GROUP DYNAMICS

Group Dynamics

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The first two crucial phases in the formation of groups are the stages of orientation and conflict . During the orientation stage , the group members are briefed on the goals and rules within the group as well as the responsibilities of each member towards the group and towards the other members of the group ( Group Dynamics and Cultural Diversity According to Tuckman , during the orientation stage , each group

member struggles to establish his own identity to make an impression . Among the problems encountered during this stage are : first , group instability that is attributable to questions to roles and power that have not been resolved second , members are not able to settle problems rationally lastly , relationships between members of the group have to be strengthened (Hunt , 1979 cited in Stages in the Formation of Groups and Teams . During this phase of group formation , the group leader is more directive ' as compared to the role played by the leader in other phases of group formation . The role of the leader during this stage of group formation is to facilitate and give directions to the group as well as to provide an outline of the purpose , rules , and roles within the group ( Group Dynamics and Cultural Diversity . It is important to know that communication is an important element to be considered during this stage of group formation . Communication can be facilitated by the use of computer-generated visual aids to effectively promote awareness among group members of the roles they have to play within the group as well as increase their knowledge of the goals and rules within the group . The group leader may choose to conduct lecture-discussions utilizing computer presentations to facilitate learning among the members of the group . Technology enables man to work effectively and procure information with ease . This implies that information has become limitless and easy to obtain thereby making orientation easier

The role of the leader during the second phase of group formation referred to as conflict stage is less directive as compared to his role in the orientation stage . During this stage , the group leader delegates tasks and assigns duties to each member of the group . However conflicts , criticisms , and confrontations may arise during this stage ( Group Dynamics and Cultural Diversity . According to Tuckman hidden agenda may be revealed and interpersonal hostility can be observed . Moreover , Tuckman characterizes this stage as predominated by dissatisfaction , competition , conflict , fight , and counterdependency (Tuckman , 1965 cited in Groups and Group Dynamics . It is the responsibility of the leader to handle , manage , and facilitate the resolution of these problems in the group . In this stage , the leader has to be keen in detecting the causes and sources of the problem . Moreover he should observe the dynamics of the group and find out who among the members of the group are aggressive and who among them are passive Lastly , the group leader should redirect negative feelings to positive feelings so as to resolve the conflicts between members of the group Together with the members of the group , the leader establishes more realistic norms that are suited to the members of the group . Similar to the orientation stage , communication is a vital element in the resolution of differences during the conflict stage . Faster communication is made possible through the use of modern devices and technology which in turn leads to faster resolution of existing gaps in the group . The leader and group members may utilize the internet to communicate . Video conferencing may also be used by group members when discussing to eventually resolve conflicts in the group

References

Group Dynamics and Cultural Diversity ' Retrieved November 23 , 2007 from

Groups and group dynamics ' Retrieved November 23 , 2007 , from Stages in the Formation of Groups and Teams ' Retrieved November 23 2007 , fromGROUP DYNAMICS Page PAGE 1 ...