GROUP DYNAMICS & TEAM

BUILDING
Module I: Group formation
Definition and Characteristics
Importance of groups
Classification of groups
Stages of group formation
Benefits of group formation

Module II: Group Functions

External Conditions affecting group functioning: Authority, Structure, Org. Resources, Organizational policies
etc.
Internal conditions affecting group functioning: Roles, Norms, Conformity, Status, Cohesiveness, Size, Inter
group conflict.
Group Cohesiveness and Group Conflict
Adjustment in Groups
Module III: Teams
• Meaning and nature of teams
• External and internal factors effecting team
• Building Effective Teams
• Consensus Building
• Collaboration
Module IV: Leadership
• Meaning,
• Nature and Functions
• Self leadership
• Leadership styles in organization
• Leadership in Teams
Module V: Power to empower: Individual and Teams
Meaning and Nature
Types of power
Relevance in organization and Society
MODULE 1
GROUP
FORMATION
 GROUP
• A group refers to two or more persons who interact for a common purpose. A
group is defined as a number of people who communicate with one another
over a span of time, face to face.

• A group is a collection of individuals who interact with one another, share

common goals, and perceive themselves as a collective entity. Members of a
group typically have a sense of belonging, engage in coordinated activities, and
may follow established norms or rules. Groups can form in various contexts,
such as social, organizational, or academic settings, and can be formal (like a
work team) or informal (like a group of friends). The dynamics within a group,
including communication, roles, and cohesion, significantly influence its
effectiveness and the achievement of its objectives.
CHARACTERISTICS
• Common Goals: Groups typically form around shared objectives or
purposes. Members work collectively towards achieving these
common goals, which bind them together.
• Interdependence: The members of a group are often
interdependent, meaning that the actions, behaviors, and outcomes of
one member can affect the others. This interdependence can be in
terms of task completion, emotional support, or decision-making.
• Structure: Groups usually have a defined structure, which may
include roles, norms, and responsibilities. This structure helps organize
the group’s activities and ensures that each member contributes
effectively.
• Communication: Effective communication is a critical characteristic
of any group. Members regularly interact with each other to share
information, coordinate activities, and resolve conflicts.
• Cohesion: Group cohesion refers to the sense of solidarity and unity among
members. A highly cohesive group is more likely to be motivated, cooperative, and
successful in achieving its goals.
• Norms: Groups develop norms, which are shared expectations or rules about how
members should behave. These norms help maintain order and guide the behavior
of group members.
• Size: The size of a group can influence its dynamics. Smaller groups often have
more direct communication and stronger relationships, while larger groups may
require more formal structures and may face challenges in maintaining cohesion.
• Identity: Groups often have a shared identity or sense of belonging. This can be
reflected in group names, symbols, or a collective self-concept, which distinguishes
them from other groups.
• Interaction: Regular interaction among members is a defining feature of a group.
This interaction can be in-person or virtual and is essential for maintaining
relationships, sharing information, and coordinating efforts.
• Leadership: Many groups have a leader or leaders who guide the group, make
decisions, and help resolve conflicts. Leadership can be formal, with designated
roles, or informal, emerging naturally within the group.
IMPORTANCE OF GROUP
• Support and Belonging

• Collaboration and Innovation

• Learning and Development

• Efficiency and Productivity

• Social Influence and Behavior

• Conflict Resolution

• Social Identity and Empowerment

CLASSIFICATION OF GROUPS
1.FORMAL GROUPS- They are deliberately created with structural associations
and are formed to accomplish specific goals or carry out specific tasks.(Common
motive, hierarchical str. ,standard norms & values)
2. INFORMAL GROUPS— It consists of a group of people who relate to each other
spontaneously for the purpose of mutual benefit .They exists within the confines
of the formal authority structure.
3. Organized groups: The group which is formed for specific purpose and is
carefully planned is called organized groups. The family, the school etc. are also
called organized groups.
4. Spontaneous groups: The groups are formed without any careful planning.
Audience may be considered as spontaneous group after listening to the speech
by a renounced speaker.
5. Command groups: Command groups are specified by the organizational chart.
It consists of a supervisor and the subordinates that report to the supervisor.
6. Task groups: A group of people work together to achieve a common task.
In many situations there is a specified time period. This can be referred to as
taskforces.
7. Functional groups: Functional group is generally created by the
organization to accomplish specific goals within an unspecified time frame.
Functional group generally exists after achievement of current goals and
objects.
8. Interest groups: It usually continues over time and may last longer than
general informal groups. It is seen that the interest of the member may not
be part of the same organizational department but they are bound by some
common interest.
9. Friendship groups: It may be of different types. These groups are formed
by the members who enjoy similar social activities, political beliefs, religious
values and other common bonds.
10. Reference groups: This is the group where the people evaluate
themselves. Reference groups have a strong influence on members’
behavior.
11. Temporary Group: Studies indicate that temporary groups come together
for ascertain purpose and disburse after the task is over.
BENEFITS OF GROUP FORMATION
• 1. Affiliation-People join a group because it gives them a chance to interact
with various individuals. The intent of affiliation is satisfied by interaction on
the job.
• 2. Security- by joining the group, an individual acquires a sense of security.
• 3. Esteem- An individual often requires recognition from outsiders. A group
provides an atmosphere of safety, and self-expression.
• 4. Power- by joining the group, an individual gets power. The members
collectively always enjoy more power than individually.
• 5. Identity- a person gets an identity buy joining the group. Group serves as
a basic of comparison with others.
• 6. Rewards-as a member of the group, an individual may get many rewards
in the form of recognition, status, and friendship. etc
• 7. Accomplishment- An individual may join the group to share knowledge of
others.
 DRAWBACKS OF GROUP FORMATION
• Time consuming,
•  Costly,
•  Individual opinions ignored
•  Dominating personalities
•  No clear focus on decisions
•  Disagreement