Group Dynamics in the Workplace

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how group dynamics are central to the effective functioning of the work group. It shows how by understanding the group processes which affect people's roles in their place of work, is an understanding of the three major aspects of groups: managing conflict, communication and trust linked with social interdependence. It reviews these three concepts in turn and shows how although some groups struggle with a new structure, the future lies in achieving good communication, managing conflicts (including the hidden agenda) and developing healthy relationships, which will lead to trust and social interdependence. The success of a group rests not only with these but also with the group members as individuals and their ability to achieve a fuller harmony and healthy balance on the physical, psychological, spiritual and social level.

From the Paper:

"A conflict situation within groups can be seen as an opportunity to grow, however it can also contain risks to the healthy state of a group. It is not the presence of conflicts but the way they are managed, which determines whether they are a positive or a negative force within a group (Johnson & Johnson, 2000, p.381). Martin Luther King postulated in 1964 (and the sentiment applies to small groups as much as large): "Mankind [sic] must evolve for all human conflict a method, which rejects revenge, aggression, and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love." Many groups spend considerable time trying to reach agreement which "satisfies our needs and meets our goals" (Johnson & Johnson, 2000, p.383). Conflicts arise in groups over the relevance of agenda. One group member may comment that he/ she is not interested in a specific program being organized by someone else."

More papers on Group Dynamics in the Workplace:

• Term Paper # 106478 : "Group Interaction in the Workplace"
• Term Paper # 149711 : "The Precarious Nature of Group Dynamics"
• Analytical Essay # 145443 : "Business and Group Dynamics"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: