Cohesive Groups Essay Example for Free

Cohesive Groups leavenIn general terms, a classify is said to be in a state of viscidness when its members possess bonds linking them to one another and to the grouping as a whole. Groups that possess strong unifying forces typically stick together oer time whereas groups that lack such bonds between members unremarkably disintegrate.Advantages of sticky groupsFirstly, members of gummy groups tend to communicate with one another in a more positive fashion than non sticking groups. As a result, members of cohesive groups often report higher aims of satisfaction and lower levels of anxiety and focus than members of non cohesive groups.Secondly, group cohesion has been linked to enhanced group performance in non laboratory base groups. This bi directional relationship is strongest when the members of a group atomic number 18 committed to the groups line of works.Limitations of cohesive groupsMembership in a cohesive group trick also prove problematic for members. As c ohesion increases, the internal dynamics (e.g., emotional and social processes) of the group intensify. As a result, people in cohesive groups be confronted with powerful pressures to conform to the groups goals, norms, and decisions. In many instances these pressures to conform are so great that members suffer from groupthink. Individuals who refuse to yield to the ways of the majority are typically met with spare negative consequences, including hostility, exclusion, and scape goating.Furthermore, group cohesion can trigger distress and mal adaptive behavior in members following changes to the structure of the group (e.g., loss of a member).The five spirit level model of group phylogenesisStage 1 FormingIn the Forming order, person-to-person relations are characterized by dependence. Group members rely on safe, patterned behavior and look to the group leader for guidance and direction. Group members have a confide for acceptance by the group and a need to be known that the group is safe. They set well-nigh gathering impressions and data about the similarities and differences among them and forming preferences for future sub grouping. Rules of behavior seem to be to keep things transparent and to avoid controversy. Serious topics and feelings are avoided. The major task functions also concern orientation. Members campaign to die orient to the tasks as well as to one another. To grow from this stage to the next, each member must unblock the comfort of non threatening topics and risk the possibility of deviation.Stage 2 StormingThe next stage, called Storming, is characterized by competition and conflict in the personal relations dimension an organization in the task functions dimension. As the group members sweat to organize for the task, conflict inevitably results in their personal relations. Individuals have to bend and mold their feelings, ideas, attitudes, and beliefs to suit the group organization. Because of fear of exposure or fear of fai lure, there bequeath be an increased desire for morphologic clarification and commitment.Although conflicts may or may not surface as group issues, they do exist. Questions will arise about who is going to be responsible for what, what the rules are, what the reward system is, and what criteria for evaluation are. These reflect conflicts over leadership, structure, power, and authority. There may be wide swings in members behavior based on emerging issues of competition and hostilities. Because of the discomfort generated during this stage, some members may remain completely silent while others attempt to dominate. In order to progress to the next stage, group members must move from a testing and proving mind to a problem settlement mentality. The most important trait in helping groups to move on to the next stage seems to be the ability to listen.Stage 3 NormingIn the norming stage, interpersonal relations are characterized by cohesion. Group members are engaged in active ackno wledgment of all members contributions, community mental synthesis and maintenance, and work of group issues. Members are willing to change their preconceived ideas or opinions on the basis of facts presented by other members, and they actively ask questions of one another. Leadership is shared, and cliques dissolve. When members produce to know and identify with one another, the level of trust in their personal relations contributes to the development of group cohesion. It is during this stage of development that people begin to experience a sense of group belonging and a feeling of relief as a result of resolving interpersonal conflicts.The major task function of stage three is the data move between group members They share feelings and ideas, solicit and give feedback to one another, and explore actions related to the task. Creativity is high. If this stage of data flow and cohesion is attained by the group members, their interactions are characterized by openness and commun ion of information on both a personal and task level. They feel good about universe part of an effective group. The major drawback of the norming stage is that members may begin to fear the inevitable future breakup of the group they may resist change of any sort.Stage 4 PerformingThe Performing stage is not reached by all groups. If group members are able to evolve to stage four, their capacity, range, and depth of personal relations expand to true interdependence. In this stage, people can work independently, in subgroups, or as a total unit with equal facility. Their roles and authorities dynamically adjust to the changing needs of the group and individuals. Stage four is marked by interdependence in personal relations and problem solving in the realm of task functions. By now, the group should be most productive.Individual members have become self assuring, and the need for group approval is past. Members are both highly task oriented and highly people oriented. There is unity group identity is complete, group morale is high, and group loyalty is intense. The task function becomes genuine problem solving, leading toward optimal solutions and optimum group development. There is support for experimentation in solving problems and an emphasis on achievement. The overall goal is productivity through problem solving and work.Stage 5 AdjourningThe final stage, adjourning, involves the termination of task behaviors and disengagement from relationships. A planned conclusion usually includes recognition for participation and achievement and an opportunity for members to say personal goodbyes. Concluding a group can create some apprehension in effect, a minor crisis. The termination of the group is a regressive movement from giving up control to giving up inclusion in the group.