Introduction to Group Dynamics

Group Dynamics is part of social psychology that addresses how human groups develop, interact and function. Group Dynamics primary goal is to find out why and how groups develop.

Bruce Tuckerman's Theory on Group Work Dynamics

 One of the biggest contributors to understanding Group Dynamics comes from, Bruce Wayne Tuckerman. Tuckerman developed a 4 stage model of group development and published his theory “Tuckerman Stages” in 1965, and added a fifth stage, adjourning, in 1977.

1. Forming: The group comes together and gets to initially know one other and form as a group. This stage can foster uncertainty, and the need for goals to be established. Forming is the first stage where people initially meet and welcome other members. This can be a confusing time for members as the group works on trust and finding the leader of the group. Members ponder “What am I here for?” Who else is here?”

Forming = "Orientation Period"

2. Storming: Storming is usually the battle for leadership and the start of voicing their individual differences. Often members seek with others who have the same beliefs, as well as voice their views, purpose and priorities. Member can air their dissatisfaction and begin to find ways through their conflicts.  Progression into the next step can only progress if all conflicts are resolved.

Storming = Conflict and Tension

3. Norming: Norming results when agreement is reached on how the group operates and defining group purpose and goals are achieved. The focus is to sustain cooperative efforts to progress to results. This is the step of setting goals, expectations and making roles for each member clear.

Norming = Recognition of Differences and
Common Expectations

4. Performing: Performing is based on refection on experiences for learning. The group becomes effective in meeting objectives. Conflict can be resolved by group discussions. Decisions are based on rational, rather than emotional issues. If a group makes it to performing, doesn’t mean the group will always stay there. The inner workings of every group tend to vary; that is except for the stages of group dynamics. Where project planning, communication, conflict resolution strategies or member roles vary from group to group, every group goes through the same five stages (Arnold, 2008).

Performing = Group Established Bonds and
Group Meets Established Objectives

Not all teams reach this stage of performing, but the lucky ones will. If you have ever been on a true “performing” team you know it. You can remember the goal, the outcome and most importantly the people. You probably remember the good more than the bad. Your memories of the bad are usually shadowed by the success you had in solving them. The high performing team is able to function as a unit. The team members are competent, autonomous and able to handle decisions without supervision. Team leaders are almost always participative during this stage. (Moore, 2011)

5. Adjourning: Some groups achieve their goals or milestone and disband. Members can decide to go their own ways and leave the group.

Adjourning - Disbandment of Group

 Why is Group Dynamics Important?

 Group Dynamics helps increase the ability to work effectively in a variety of group situations. By understanding what group dynamics, it helps to establish an understanding of how effective communication within groups can be pro-active measures to ensuring the success and well-being of working in groups. Group Dynamics is about the relationship between the members within the group, where the members of a group are like the beads of a necklace which hold it together (Samali, 2010). Leaders frequently work in groups while striving to create a positive work environment. Groups are most likely made up of all sorts of personalities, diversities and skill sets. Unfortunately, not everyone has the ability to agree or even get along all the time. By understanding how groups work by understanding the importance of group dynamics, we can all build better relationships, enhance communication skills and learn to observe signs to manage conflict in our lives.

To master any theory of group work dynamics, you must let the appropriate stages evolve, handle conflict, and not only monitor teams, but learn to judge how well a team works as a unit and know when to pull team members out or introduce new members if the need arises. (Scheid, 2011)

Overall, Group Dynamics explores how and why groups form. It addresses how leaders and followers react in groups. Leadership and dynamics play a crucial role when it comes to group success. They support each other and create enormous outcomes. (Samali, 2010). It is useful to help us understand everything from decision-making behavior to what causes social prejudice and discrimination within teams. By understanding the role of members in groups, we can assess ways to be pro-active as leaders in the workplace, become better at conflict management and learn to be a better communicator.

References:

Arnold, D. (August 2008). The Stages of a Group: Forming, Norming, Storming, Performing and Adjourning. Retrieved from: http://voices.yahoo.com/the-stages-group-forming-norming-storming-performing-1687847.html

Samali, T. (Nov 14, 2010). The importance of Group Dynamics on Leadership in an organization. Retrieved from: http://suite101.com/article/the-importance-of-group-dynamics-on-leadership-in-an-organization-a308863

Scheid, J. (June 2011). Theories of Group Work Dynamics. Retrieved from:

http://www.brighthubpm.com/resource-management/96930-theories-of-group-work-dynamics/

Moore, P. (July 5, 2011).Social Network Group Dynamics – Is it About ME or WE? Retrieved from: http://socialmediatoday.com/pammoore/312933/social-network-group-dynamics-it-about-me-or-we

Great Resources for More Information on Group Dynamics:

http://www.enotes.com/group-dynamics-reference/group-dynamics

http://answers.mheducation.com/management/organizational-behavior/groups-and-teams