Identifies series of predictable stages through which small groups progress: pre-affiliation, power and control, intimacy, differentiation, and separation. Shows application of group development for each area as group passes through various stages. Outlines model for each area summarizing group interaction and instructor roles for each stage. (NEC)

Argues that both small group behavior and writing processes are involved in the writing of group reports. (SRT)

In an initial test of a theory of increasing content, forty experimental dyads ranging from compatibility to incompatibility were composed and studied. The three channels are identified as the motivation, delivery, and information channels. A linear relationship between intra-group compatibility and a set of five dependent variables was…

Study results indicate that individuals distinctly prefer one kind of arrangement over other alternatives and that group members interact in such a way that identifiable differences among participant groups are noticeable. (Author)

Argues that using data collected at an individual level to make inferences concerning the effects of group level processes on individual behavior and attitudes often results in unrecognized inaccuracies. Demonstrates a multilevel approach for examining individual and group level influences of a social interaction variable on individual outcomes.…

The most effective group leaders are those perceived as highly energetic, supportive, and flexible in their style, who provide stimulation for the group and opportunity for emotional expression and closeness. This positive confronting style is contrasted with an intrusive-aggressive or challenging style. (Author/JMF)

Examines consensus as a function of group members' decision rule orientations. Finds that for groups that interacted verbally, consensus was more likely between groups composed of members with matching (rather than differing) rule orientations. Discusses implications for group consensus and the decision rule orientation construct. (MM)

Builds a typology of the temporal paths by which decisions develop. Develops a typology with 11 different decision paths in three main groups: unitary sequences, complex sequences, and solution-centered sequences. Finds analysis of this typology supports the multiple sequence model, but also suggests a role for normative unitary models. (MS)

Examined the relationship between group processes and group performance and cohesion in task and social groups using college students (N=160) as subjects. Found results supported the conceptual distinction between cohesion and performance and the importance of processes dealing with both the task and group maintenance. (Author/ABL)

Summarizes theories of group development encompassing the stages of orientation, conflict, integration, achievement, and breakup. Relates group development stages to leadership styles and the leader's relative concern for dimensions of task and relationship. Applies the five-stage model of group development to the progress of groups involved in…

Trends in the provision of mental health services have generated greater interests in brief group counseling. Offers one perspective for the integration of solution-oriented theory and techniques into counseling. (Author)

Describes how teachers can help children feel included, connected, and valued, explaining that the family is the child's first and most important group, and children learn the rules of social interaction from primary relationships with adults. As children play, they learn and formulate their own social rules. Teachers can provide structured,…

Whenever group work takes place, rules and norms are established by group members. Rules are typically written and formally stated by group members, whereas norms are more informal and are implicitly stated. But regardless of how rules and norms are established, they enable group members to develop procedures from which the group can function.…

This annotated bibliography includes sources of information that are primarily concerned with problem solving, decision making, and processes of social influence in small groups, and secondarily deal with other aspects of communication and interaction in groups, such as conflict management and negotiation. The 57 entries, all dating from 1980…

Interest has recently focused on group polarization as a function of attitude processes. Several recent reviewers have challenged polarization researchers to integrate the explanations of polarization to existing theories of attitude change. This review suggests that there exists a clear similarity between the social comparison and persuasive…