Groups Essay -- Communities Psychology Group Essays

Groups Group Processes and Structures One of the most elementary aspects of group formation may be the experience of common fate, the perception that ones outcomes are bound up with those of others. An even stronger form of interdependence is that shaped by the task goals of the group. Where these bring people into a positive relationship with one another then cooperation, cohesion and enhanced group performance are likely. Negative interdependence on the other hand leads to competition, reduced liking for others in the group and usually lower performance. As the group develops, the roles to be occupied by individuals emerge and develop This process of role differentiation emerges where there is a new group one individual may assume the task-leadership role other may emerge as well. Where the group has been in existence for some time and a member of the group leaves a newcomer may be specifically assigned to take over the role. This division of labour will contribute to peoples identities. As the group developes so also do the expectations members have about what rules and procedures might be appropriate to develop. This is the process of the establishment of group norms. Group members enjoy different amounts of power and prestige which gives rise status hierarchies in groups. Such status differences can generate expectations for group members behaviour. Closely tied to status differentiation are social comparison processes through which individuals can make a...