Group Dynamics
•The social process by which people interact
in a group environment
•The influences of personality, power and
behavior on the group process
What Does It Take to Make a Group?
Defining and Classifying Groups
Group(s)
Two or more individuals interacting and
interdependent, who have come together
to achieve particular objectives.
Formal Group
Informal Group
A designated work
group defined by the
organization’s structure.
A group that is neither
formally structured nor
organizationally determined;
appears in response to the
need for social contact.
Importance of informal groups
•Support to formal structure
•Speedy communication
•Social functions
•Solution to work problems
•Better relations
Dysfunctional or negative aspect of
informal groups
•Restriction of output
•power politics by informal leaders
•Generation to rumors
•Resistance to change
•Social costs
Defining and Classifying Groups
(cont’d)
Command Group
Task Group
A group composed of
the individuals who
report directly to a
given manager.
Those working together
to complete a job or task.
Interest Group
Friendship Group
Those working together
to attain a specific
objective with which
each is concerned.
Those brought together
because they share one
or more common
characteristics.
Why People Join Groups
• Security
• Status
• Self-esteem
• Affiliation
• Power
• Goal Achievement
Forming Stage
The first stage in group development, characterized by
•
•
•
•
•
much uncertainty.
Polite
why are we here
Introductions are made
First Impression
Storming Stage
The second stage in group development,
characterized by intra group conflict.
•
conflict,
•
individual recognition
•
Hidden Agendas
•
Emotions run high
Norming Stage

The third stage in group development, characterized by
close relationships and cohesiveness.
issue resolution, develop social agreements,
cohesion,

Listening

Creativity
Performing Stage
The fourth stage in group development,
when the group is fully functional.
•mutual assistance, creativity,
understanding goals and roles
High Morale and Esprit
Intense Loyalty
Individual Creativity
Adjourning Stage
The final stage in group development for
temporary groups, characterized by concern
with wrapping up activities rather than
performance.
closure, ceremonies
Stages of Group Development