Group Dynamics Recap

What are "group dynamics"?

• The specific task a group needs to accomplish.

• The invisible forces that influence how group members interact and how the group functions.

• The final stage when a group disbands.

• A type of maintenance role in a group.

Understanding group dynamics helps individuals to:

• Control the group's decisions.

• Avoid participating in groups altogether.

• Complain more effectively about group problems.

• Contribute more positively and navigate challenges successfully.

Roles that focus on getting the job done and achieving the group's goals are known as:

• Maintenance Roles

• Task Roles

• Negative Roles

• Forming Roles

Roles that focus on keeping the group working together smoothly and maintaining relationships are known as:

• Maintenance Roles

• Task Roles

• Negative Roles

• Storming Roles

A group member who proposes new ideas or ways to approach the task is playing which task role?

• Coordinator

• Evaluator/Critic

• Information Seeker

• Initiator

A group member who praises and supports others' contributions, saying things like "Great idea!" is playing which maintenance role?

• Harmonizer

• Gatekeeper

• Encourager

• Follower

A group member who mediates disagreements and relieves tension, often using humor, is playing which maintenance role?

• Harmonizer

• Gatekeeper

• Encourager

• Initiator

A group member who analyzes the group's ideas against the project requirements or points out potential problems (constructively) is playing which task role?

• Coordinator

• Evaluator/Critic

• Information Giver

• Harmonizer

A group member who encourages quieter members to participate, saying things like "Sarah, what do you think?" is playing which maintenance role?

• Harmonizer

• Gatekeeper

• Follower

• Coordinator

A group member who constantly shuts down ideas without offering alternatives ("No, that will never work.") is playing which negative role?

• Encourager

• Blocker

• Harmonizer

• Gatekeeper