Question 1

Use the concept of group structure to compare primary groups and collectives.

Accepted Answer

Primary groups and collectives can be compared using the concept of group structure. Primary groups are small, intimate, and long-lasting social groups, such as families, close friends, and small communities. These groups have a strong sense of belonging, emotional support, and personal relationships. In terms of group structure, primary groups have a high level of cohesion, with members feeling a strong sense of identity and attachment to the group.

On the other hand, collectives are larger, more impersonal, and often temporary social groups, such as crowds, audiences, or social movements. These groups are characterized by a weaker sense of belonging and emotional support, and members may not have personal relationships with each other. In terms of group structure, collectives have a lower level of cohesion compared to primary groups, as members may not feel as connected or committed to the group.

In summary, primary groups and collectives can be compared using the concept of group structure by examining the level of cohesion, sense of belonging, and emotional support within each group. Primary groups have a higher level of cohesion and stronger personal relationships, while collectives have a lower level of cohesion and may lack personal connections among members. Understanding these differences in group structure can help us better understand the dynamics and interactions within primary groups and collectives.

Question 2

If your group dynamics class develops like most groups do,what processes and changes do you expect to see take place during the semester?

Accepted Answer

In a group dynamics class, it is common to see various processes and changes take place during the semester. At the beginning, there may be a period of forming, where individuals are getting to know each other and establishing their roles within the group. As the semester progresses, there may be some storming as conflicts or disagreements arise, but this can lead to a greater understanding and cohesion within the group.

As the group continues to work together, there may be a period of norming, where expectations and norms are established and adhered to. This can lead to increased productivity and effectiveness within the group. Finally, as the semester comes to a close, there may be a period of performing, where the group is able to work together seamlessly and achieve their goals.

Throughout the semester, there may also be changes in leadership, communication styles, and group cohesion. Individuals may become more comfortable expressing their opinions and ideas, and the group as a whole may become more efficient and effective in their work. Overall, the processes and changes that take place during the semester in a group dynamics class can lead to a greater understanding of group dynamics and improved teamwork skills.

Question 3

Will a passerby who sees six people sitting outside the library think these people are a group? Use the concept of entitativity to offer an answer.

Accepted Answer

Entitativity is a concept in social psychology that refers to the perception of a collection of individuals as a coherent group. This perception is influenced by factors such as similarity, common fate, proximity, and interaction among the individuals. When people perceive a high level of entitativity, they are more likely to see the individuals as a group rather than as separate, unrelated entities.

In the scenario where a passerby sees six people sitting outside the library, whether the passerby perceives these people as a group (high entitativity) or as individuals (low entitativity) will depend on several cues:

1. **Similarity**: If the six people appear to be similar in some way, such as wearing similar clothing or being of a similar age, the passerby might infer that they are part of a group.

2. **Common Fate**: If the individuals seem to be engaged in a common activity or appear to be waiting for the same event, this could suggest a shared purpose or destiny, leading the passerby to view them as a group.

3. **Proximity**: Since the individuals are sitting together outside the library, their physical closeness might lead the passerby to perceive them as a group.

4. **Interaction**: If the passerby observes the individuals talking, laughing, or otherwise interacting with each other, this would be a strong indicator of a group.

5. **Distinctiveness**: If the group stands out from the surrounding environment or other people in some way, they may be more likely to be seen as a cohesive unit.

6. **Group markers**: Any symbols or markers that indicate group membership, such as school logos on clothing or similar accessories, could lead the passerby to conclude that the individuals are part of a group.

7. **Temporal Stability**: If the passerby frequently sees the same individuals together at the library, they might infer that these individuals form a stable group.

Based on these factors, if the six people sitting outside the library are interacting with each other, are physically close, and share some visible similarities or common activities, it is likely that a passerby would perceive them as a group. However, if the individuals are not interacting, are spaced apart, and show no signs of commonality, the passerby might not see them as a group. Ultimately, the passerby's perception will be based on the cues available at the moment of observation and their interpretation of those cues.

Question 4

A group of young men and women meet regularly via the internet to play an online game together.Do they qualify as a group?

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Question 5

Provide and justify your own definition of the term group.

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Question 6

Why do psychologists,sociologists,anthropologists,and political scientists study groups?

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Question 7

Members can influence each other in many ways.Describe and demonstrate the difference between unilateral,sequential,and reciprocal interdependence.Note: A diagram may help.

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Question 8

Are six people waiting at a bus stop in silence a group?

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Question 9

Use McGrath's taxonomy of tasks to compare these four groups: an assembly line,a political committee deciding to invade Cuba,a company whose members are debating about a potential project,and a ballet troupe.

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Question 10

Explain why you agree or disagree with the following thesis: Dyads (two people)are not groups.

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Question 11

What does the concept of entitativity have to do with prejudice and stereotyping?

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Question 12

You are observing a group of men installing a heating system in a building.What key qualities should you note in your case study of this work group? Define these qualities and give an example of each for the work group.

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Question 13

What are the common origins of groups?

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Question 14

Pat is a member of APX fraternity and a male.Examine the relative impact of these two groups on Pat's identity.

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Question 15

Why do individuals often underestimate the influence of groups and their dynamics?

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Question 16

Draw on Hofstede's theory of national cultures to describe cultural differences in group-level processes (formation,influence,performance,and conflict).

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Question 17

Lewin used the word dynamic when describing groups.Why did he select this word? What is the definition of group dynamics?

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Question 18

What is the relationship between the size of humans' brains and their groups?

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Question 19

What two classes of interaction did Bales find to be the most common in group situations? Provide two examples of groups that differ on these classes of interaction.

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Question 20

What is the difference between a primary group and a social (or secondary)group?

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Quiz 1: An Introduction to Group Dynamics