Chapter 9

Question 0

Similarities of that distinguish small groups from other social units include…

Answer 0

1. Size 2. Interdependent
2. Cohesive 4. Enforce rules and norms.
3. Include individual roles. 6. Have their own identities. 7. Distinctive communication practices.
4. Often interact online.

Question 1

Small group

Answer 1

A collection of people working interdependently to accomplish a task; a small group typically consists of 3 to 20 members.

Question 2

Interdependence

Answer 2

With respect to groups, a state in which each member of a group affects, and is affected by every other member.

Question 3

Cohesion

Answer 3

The force by which the members of a group work together in the service of a common goal.

Question 4

Task cohesion

Answer 4

The extent to which everyone in the group is working together toward the same objectives.

Question 5

Social cohesion

Answer 5

Level of positive regard group members have for one another

Question 6

Four behaviors that cause a small group to become dysfunctional…

Answer 6

1. Parasitism
2. Interpersonal aggression
3. Boastfulness
4. Misuse of resources

Question 7

Formal roles

Answer 7

Roles specifically assigned to people to help the group to fulfill it’s mission.

Question 8

Informal roles

Answer 8

Not formally assigned and anyone in the group can choose to take them on.

Question 9

Four specific types of communication that characterize small groups…

Answer 9

1. Problem-solving communication
2. Role communication
3. Consciousness raising communication
4. Encounter communication

Question 10

Function of a small group

Answer 10

1. Focus on discrete tasks
2. Evaluate and advise
3. Create Art and ideas
4. Provide service and support
5. Promote social networking
6. Compete
7. Help us to learn
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Question 11

Focus groups

Answer 11

Usually composed of 6-10 members who may use and provide their feedback on a new product before it is available to the public

Question 12

Brainstorming groups

Answer 12

Small groups of people assembled to generate innovative ways of thinking.

Question 13

Reasons we join small groups

Answer 13

1. We need to belong
2. Protection
3. Improve our effectiveness
4. Feel pressure to join

Question 14

The 5 phases of socialization into small groups include

Answer 14

1. Antecedent phase
2. Anticipatory
3. Encounter
4. Assimilation
5. Exit

Question 15

Antecedent phase

Answer 15

Before we ever enter a new group. When we develop certain beliefs, attitudes, and expectations

Question 16

Anticipatory phase

Answer 16

When we make judgements about from a group and it’s members

Question 17

Encounter phase

Answer 17

The first time we meet with others as a group

Question 18

3 tasks addressed during the encounter phase…

Answer 18

1. Use initial meeting to establish goals and mission of the group
2. Assign roles and responsibilities to its members
3. Remind members of expectations for their behavior

Question 19

Assimilation phase

Answer 19

Group members may begin enacting specific rituals of communication behaviors that signify their membership in the group

Question 20

Exit phase

Answer 20

Voluntarily or involuntary exit of a group. Most groups have life spans. Groups can cease to exist

Question 21

Advantages of communication in small groups

Answer 21

1. Provide resources
2. Experience synergy
3. Expose us to diversity

Question 22

Resources

Answer 22

Assets that enable the group to be productive

Question 23

Synergy

Answer 23

A collaboration that produces more than the sum of its parts

Question 24

Challenges of communication in small groups

Answer 24

1. Requires sacrifice 2. Experience conflict 3. Difficult to coordinate

Question 25

Social loafing

Answer 25

The tendency of some members of a group to contribute less to the group than the average member does, particularly as the group grows in size

Question 26

Two important communication skills for small groups include...

Answer 26

1. Socializing new members constructively | 2. Maintaining positive group relationships.

Question 27

Four behaviors to help socialize new members positively and constructively

Answer 27

1. Recruit good members 2. Create a group orientation 3. Include new members in activities 4. Be a mentor

Question 28

Mentor

Answer 28

Someone who serves as a trusted friend, counselor, or teacher to another person

Question 29

Four steps to aid yourself into socialization in a new group

Answer 29

1. Embrace the groups culture 2. Acquire appropriate skills 3. Learn what matters 4. Contribute to the group

Question 30

Two ways to establish positive relationships in a small group

Answer 30

1. Contributing to the creation of a constructive group environment 2. Helping to build group cohesion

Question 31

Tips on how to contribute to a constructive group environment

Answer 31

1. Celebrate success 2. Defuse stress 3. Respect others

Question 32

Tips on how to contribute to group cohesion

Answer 32

1. Emphasize collective goals 2. Keep track of progress 3. Remind others of their value to the group