Group Dynamics Study Guide

Group Dynamics/ Study Guide * Kurt Lewin- the father of Group Dynamics * Began in the 20th century in North America * 4 stages of Group Process 1. Forming- getting to know you phase-uneasiness/distrust 2. Storming-conflict occurs as the group tries to come together 3. Norming-conflict is resolved, group becomes cohesive 4. Performing-group members are cooperative 5. Adjourning * Elements of effective meetings- clear and purpose and agenda * Creativity- use of imagination and generation of new ideas * Meyers-Briggs-Personality inventory * 3 types of Diversity 1. Demographic- ethnicity, language, handicap, social class, religion, age, gender 2. Personal characteristics- age, gender, communication style, economic background 3. Abilities and skills- social and technical, what one brings to the group * Working Styles: 1. Amiable-people-oriented, relatively unassertive, warm, and reliable, organizers 2. Analytical- task-oriented and unassertive. Need to be right, slow, cautious, people oriented 3. Driver- dominant, task-oriented, assertive, competitive with others, impatient 4. Expressive- people-oriented, assertive, fast-paced, manipulative, uninhibited * Managing Conflict: 1. Force Field Analysis- used to identify forces that help and hinder the desired change 2. Fishbone Analysis- cause and effect diagram- useful in diagnosing a problem and implementing a solution * P.A.S.T Model of Win-Win- useful in that both parties will get what they want 1. Principles-Focus on issues, not personalities 2. Assumptions-bargaining enhances the parties relationship 3. Steps-agree on a list of issues 4. Techniques-idea charting, brain storming, consensus decision making * Interest-Based Problem Solving 1. Define the problem 2. Determine the interest 3. Develop options 4. Evaluate Options 5. Construct and implement solutions 6. Review and assess