Joining Together introduces readers to the theory and research needed to understand how to make groups effective and, through exercises and thorough explanations, equips them with the skills required to apply that knowledge to practical situations.
Chapters discuss the history of groups and group dynamics, the nature of experiential learning, group goals, communication within groups, leadership, power, decision making, controversy and creativity, and conflict management. More applied chapters focus on valuing diversity, cooperative learning, leading counseling groups, and team development and training.
The new edition of this best-selling text features:
New sections on controversy and creativity
New individual and group exercises
A focus on new technologies
Greater focus on minority influence, group goals, and diversity
and many other updates and changes.
Joining Together introduces readers to the theory and research needed to understand how to make groups effective and, through exercises and thorough explanations, equips them with the skills required to apply that knowledge to practical situations.
Preface
Chapter 1: Group Dynamics
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
Group Dynamics and Me
What Is a Group?
The Importance of Groups
Group Structure
Creating Productive Groups
How to Create an Effective Group
The Development of Groups Over Time
The Field of Group Dynamics
The Nature of This Book and How to Use It
Summary
Chapter 2: Group Goals, Social Interdependence, and Trust
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
Introduction
What Is a Goal?
START Goals
Clarity of Goals
Operational Goals
Group Goals and Level of Aspiration
Dealing with Hidden Agendas
Helping Groups Set Effective Goals
Group Goals and Social Interdependence Among Members
Outcomes of Social Interdependence
Effort to Achieve and Produce
Reciprocal Relationships Among the Three Outcomes
Mediating Variables: The Basic Elements of Cooperation 1
The Stability of Cooperation
Goal Structures and the Allocation of Benefits
Among Group Members
Mixed-Motive Situations
Developing and Maintaining Trust
Summary
Chapter 3: Communication Within Groups
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
Introduction and Definitions
Group Communication
Sending and Receiving Messages
Communication in a Problem-Solving Group
Interaction Analysis
Communication Networks
Communication Patterns in an Authority Hierarchy
Influences on Effectiveness of Group Communication
Effects of Cooperation and Competition on Communication
Physical Influences on Communication
Seating Arrangements
Humor
Summary
Chapter 4: Experiential Learning
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
Procedural Learning
Action Theories
Gaining Expertise Through Experiential Learning
Experiential Learning and Motivation
Learning Group Skills
Role Playing
Learning How to Be a Participant-Observer
Conducting Skill-Training Exercises
Ethics of Experiential Learning
Summary
Chapter 5: Leadership
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
What Is Leadership?
Trait Theories of Leadership
Leadership Styles
Influence Theory of Leadership
Role Position/Group Structure Approach to Leadership
Situational Theories of Leadership
Organizational Leadership
What If You Do Not Want to Be a Leader?
Summary
Chapter 6: Using Power
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
Introduction
What Is Power?
The Dynamic Interdependence View of Power
Mobilizing Power to Achieve Goals
The Trait Factor Approach to Power
The Bases of Power
Conflict Model of Social Influence
Power and Problem Solving
Unequal Power
Group Norms: Indirect Power
The Group Mind
Individual Versus Relationship Perspectives
Summary
Chapter 7: Decision Making
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
Making Effective Decisions
Individual Versus Group Decision Making
Methods of Decision Making
Factors Enhancing Group Decision Making
Factors Hindering Group Decision Making
Considered and Thoughtful Decision Making
Problems with Theorizing on Decision Making
Summary
Chapter 8 Controversy and Creativity
Basic Concepts to Be Covered in This Chapter
Controversy and Decision Making
Outcomes of Controversy
Creativity
Process of Controversy
Conditions Determining the Constructiveness
