Introduction
Group dynamics is the interaction process among group members, including positive and negative aspects. These elements or factors can influence the group’s productivity, making it essential for a manager to understand them and take measures to maintain a productive group dynamic. The five core elements of group dynamics include goals and tasks, roles, communication, conflicts and feelings, and norms.
The Five Components of Group Dynamics
Goals and Roles
The first element of group dynamics is the goal-determining tasks to complete. When a group understands its goal and works together, productivity is stimulated. A manager can help the group define its goals and show how to achieve them to stimulate a positive group dynamic. The second important element is roles, as each group member should understand their role and responsibilities for the group to work effectively (Merlin et al., 2020). Thus, a manager’s task is to help group members understand their roles and make changes to distribute responsibilities if necessary.
Communication, Conflicts, and Norms
The third element is communication, and group members should openly communicate with each other and discuss ideas to achieve better results. A manager should ensure that all group members are included in the discussion if there are dysfunctions. Conflicts can arise within groups and negatively impact productivity because of involved negative feelings. Thus, a manager must help the group resolve conflicts and teach them to work constructively with conflicts (Jones et al., 2022). The fifth element includes norms that can influence productivity, and a manager should be prepared to take action if group behavior norms do not align with the set goals.
Conclusion
If a group becomes dysfunctional, managers can take measures to stimulate a positive group dynamic. They can provide training to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen the bond between group members. It may also be helpful to change the distribution of roles and responsibilities to increase group productivity.
If necessary, a manager can conduct individual meetings with group members to understand the problems affecting dysfunctional group dynamics (Monson, 2019). Maintaining a positive group dynamic is an ongoing process that requires constant attention and effort from a manager and all group members, as a positive group dynamic is a critical factor in achieving high group productivity.
References
Jones, C., Volet, S., Pino-Pasternak, D., & Heinimäki, O. P. (2022). Interpersonal affect in groupwork: A comparative case study of two small groups with contrasting group dynamics outcomes. Frontline Learning Research, 10(1), 46-75. Web.
Merlin, M. D., Lavoie, S., & Gallagher, F. (2020). Elements of group dynamics that influence learning in small groups in undergraduate students: A scoping review. Nurse Education Today, 87. Web.
Monson, R. A. (2019). Do they have to like it to learn from it? Students’ experiences, group dynamics, and learning outcomes in group research projects. Teaching Sociology, 47(2), 116-134. Web.