The Basics of Speech

Chapter 7: Communication in Groups

Overview

Group members and their leader(s) need to be competent communicators and need to know how to work with one another within their group. A group consists of people who share an interest in the same things or share a common purpose, communicate regularly among themselves, participate in planning and decision making, and feel connected to each other. A group is characterized by its structure, purpose, norms, roles, and subgroups. Group structure is the amount of organization a group needs to carry out its business. A group purpose is the group's reason for existing. Group norms are the standards for action within the group. A role is a pattern of communication that characterizes one's place in a group. A subgroup is a smaller unit within a group.

Most groups experience a four-stage life cycle: forming, storming, norming, and performing. Effective groups use a five-step problem solving process: identifying the problem, analyzing the problem, setting criteria for a solution, developing solutions, and selecting a solution. Problem solving is most effective if group members fulfill their speaking and listening responsibilities. In addition, members should understand the role(s) and responsibilities of the leader(s). Lastly, evaluating a group discussion helps members retain helpful behaviors and change behaviors that do not work well.