Preface

Chapter 1: Group Dynamics

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

Group Dynamics and Me

What Is a Group?

The Importance of Groups

Group Structure

Creating Productive Groups

How to Create an Effective Group

The Development of Groups Over Time

The Field of Group Dynamics

The Nature of This Book and How to Use It

Summary

Chapter 2: Group Goals, Social Interdependence, and Trust

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

Introduction

What Is a Goal?

START Goals

Clarity of Goals

Operational Goals

Group Goals and Level of Aspiration

Dealing with Hidden Agendas

Helping Groups Set Effective Goals

Group Goals and Social Interdependence Among Members

Outcomes of Social Interdependence

Effort to Achieve and Produce

Reciprocal Relationships Among the Three Outcomes

Mediating Variables: The Basic Elements of Cooperation 1

The Stability of Cooperation

Goal Structures and the Allocation of Benefits

Among Group Members

Mixed-Motive Situations

Developing and Maintaining Trust

Summary

Chapter 3: Communication Within Groups

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

Introduction and Definitions

Group Communication

Sending and Receiving Messages

Communication in a Problem-Solving Group

Interaction Analysis

Communication Networks

Communication Patterns in an Authority Hierarchy

Influences on Effectiveness of Group Communication

Effects of Cooperation and Competition on Communication

Physical Influences on Communication

Seating Arrangements

Humor

Summary

Chapter 4: Experiential Learning

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

Procedural Learning

Action Theories

Gaining Expertise Through Experiential Learning

Experiential Learning and Motivation

Learning Group Skills

Role Playing

Learning How to Be a Participant-Observer

Conducting Skill-Training Exercises

Ethics of Experiential Learning

Summary

Chapter 5: Leadership

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

What Is Leadership?

Trait Theories of Leadership

Leadership Styles

Influence Theory of Leadership

Role Position/Group Structure Approach to Leadership

Situational Theories of Leadership

Organizational Leadership

What If You Do Not Want to Be a Leader?

Summary

Chapter 6: Using Power

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

Introduction

What Is Power?

The Dynamic Interdependence View of Power

Mobilizing Power to Achieve Goals

The Trait Factor Approach to Power

The Bases of Power

Conflict Model of Social Influence

Power and Problem Solving

Unequal Power

Group Norms: Indirect Power

The Group Mind

Individual Versus Relationship Perspectives

Summary

Chapter 7: Decision Making

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

Making Effective Decisions

Individual Versus Group Decision Making

Methods of Decision Making

Factors Enhancing Group Decision Making

Factors Hindering Group Decision Making

Considered and Thoughtful Decision Making

Problems with Theorizing on Decision Making

Summary

Chapter 8 Controversy and Creativity

Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter

Controversy and Decision Making

Outcomes of Controversy

Creativity

Process of Controversy

Conditions Determining the Constructiveness