Group Dynamics

The idea of Group Dynamics is developed by Kurt Lewin who is a social scientist and change management expert. Importance of a team was not highlighted in traditional management at 1940.”Group dynamics” explains the roles and responsibilities of a group and how to build strong team bonding by using effective tools.

There are two types of group dynamics: Positive and Negative. Though each person has individual job roles, every team member tries to rely on others in terms of getting the ultimate output. That is one main reasons behind focusing on the positive dynamic. Research has proved that there is a relation between group dynamics and organizational outcome. Even the profit margin of a company depends on group dynamics which ensures the team understanding. Lack of group dynamics might cause depression, insecurity and frustration of an employee. Success of a team depends how tight the bonding is and how they adjust with their behaviors for organizational goal. Modern management requires group effort for achieving the desired goal. Group Dynamics is often considered as the heart of management. Management system works as biology. Each and every single part of our body is important to us to function the whole body properly. To make sure a perfect management system it is highly recommended for the managers to understand the anatomy of a management system.

What Causes Poor Group Dynamics?

Group leaders and team members can contribute to a negative group dynamic. Let’s look at some of the most common problems that can occur:

  • Weak leadership
  • Excessive deference to authority.
  • Blocking: this happens when team members behave in a way that disrupts the flow of information in the group. People can adopt blocking roles such as:
  • The aggressor:this person often disagrees with others, or is inappropriately outspoken.
  • The negator:this group member is often critical of others’ ideas.
  • The withdrawer:this person doesn’t participate in the discussion.
  • The recognition seeker:this group member is boastful, or dominates the session.
  • The joker:this person introduces humor at inappropriate times.
  • Groupthink
  • Free riding
  • Evaluation apprehension

Strategies for Improving Group Dynamics

  • Factors which are holding your groups back
  • Group Dynamics in Top Management Teams
  • Know Your Team
  • Tackle Problems Quickly
  • Define Roles and Responsibilities
  • Break Down Barriers
  • Focus on Communication
  • Groupthink, Vigilance, and Alternative Models of Organizational Failure and Success
  • Pay Attention
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