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Small Group Communication Synergy

Small Group Communication Synergy

Author(s): Peter DeCaro

Edition: 1

Copyright: 2011

Edition: 1

Copyright: 2011

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Small groups serve a multitude of purposes in society. Decision-making and problem solving are two of the most typical purposes, with performance as their ultimate goal.

Many small group communication texts focus on the “process” of communication as the end product, or the ultimate goal for small group work. Small Group Communication Synergy is a departure from that view. The text presents communication as the tool--rather than the goal--small groups use to increase individual and group performance.

Written from a performance management perspective, Small Group Communication Synergy:

  • contains references to original theorists and their works, such as -  Kurt Lewin, George C. Homans, and Stanley Milgram -  instead of referring to multiple interpretations by others
  • simply and clearly explains theory to help the reader understand why and how people behave the way they do in a group setting
  • embraces and expands upon the growing use of technology in group and team communication
  • incorporates leadership with performance management – explaining how an effective leader can direct the group to perform at its best with a minimum amount of direction

Chapter 1 - Role of Communication in Groups and Teams
Characteristics of Human Communication
Communication as a Transactional Process
Communication as Shared Meaning
Verbal Communication
Nonverbal Communication
Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
Interconnectedness
Communication as a Regulatory Function
Small Group Communication is Personal
Communication
Interpersonal Communication Competence
Dialectic versus Dialogue
Communication
Cultural Differences
Cultural Norms
What Influences Thinking in Cultures?
What Influences Behavior in Cultures?
Overcoming Language Barriers
Elements of Competence
Gender and Communication
Gender Differences in Communication
Differences Between Feminine and Masculine
Communication
Ethics
Ethics Defined
A Culture’s Code of Ethics Defines
That Culture
Ethical Conduct in Groups
Guidelines for Group Discussion
Effective Discussion Participation
Summary

Chapter 2 - Developing Effective Groups and Teams
What Are Groups?
Why Groups or Teams?
Team Building
The Nature of Group Dynamics
Macro-Theories of Group Dynamics
A Brief History
Kurt Lewin’s “Field Theory”
Robert F. Bales’ Interaction Process Analysis
George C. Homans’ Systems Theory of
Informal Work Groups
Groups and Systems
Initial Elements in Group Systems
Roles in Groups
Individual Accountability
Types of Roles
Role Competence: Norms and Conformity
Becoming Familiar with Colleagues
Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator

Chapter 3 - Power Roles: Members, Leader, and Ethics
Defining Power
Types of Power
Group Members’ Influence
Group and Structural Process
Coercive Methods Create Dysfunctional
Group Processes
Leadership Power
Designated Leader
Emerging Leader
Power and Ethics
Ethical Principles
Summary

Chapter 4 - Leadership and Performance Management
What Is Performance Management?
The ABC Model of Behavior Change
(Antecedents, Behavior, and
Consequences)
Antecedents
Consequences
ABC Analysis: A Problem-Solving Process
The 7-Step ABC Analysis
Reinforcement
Summary

Chapter 5 - Leadership and Leadership Styles
Leadership
Defining Leadership
Competencies of Leadership
Communication Competence
Two Characteristics of Leadership
Vision
Credibility
Recognizing Leaders
Leadership as a Function in a System
Leaders as Mediators
Leadership Styles
Classic Leadership Styles
The Leadership Grid
Determining Appropriate Styles
The Hersey-Blanchard Situational
Leadership Model
Four Basic Situational Leadership Styles
Summary

Chapter 6 - Leadership, Persuasion, and Motivation
Persuasive Theories
Beliefs
Attitudes
Cognitive Dissonance
Expectancy Theory
Expectancy Violation Theory
Attribution Theory
Models of Belief Change
Theory of Reasoned Action
Social Judgment Theory
Compliance-Gaining
Motivational Research
Motives are the “Why’s” of Behavior
Motivational Theories
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Murray’s Inventory of Psychogenic Needs
Alderfer’s ERG Theory
Summary

Chapter 7 - Leadership and Performance Management
What Is Performance Management?
The ABC Model of Behavior Change
(Antecedents, Behavior, and
Consequences)
Antecedents
Consequences
ABC Analysis: A Problem-Solving Process
The 7-Step ABC Analysis
Reinforcement
Summary

Chapter 8 - Leadership and Team Building
Leadership
Decision-Making Process
Problem-Solving Process
Making Teams Work
Behavior Is the Key
Creating the Proper Environment
Managing Teams
Modeling: What to Model
Reinforcement: Know What You
Want to Reinforce
Process versus Content
How to Support the Process
Reinforcing
Summary

Chapter 9 - Interpersonal Communication for Leaders
Interpersonal Communication in Groups
Relational Communication
Relational Dialectics and Group Leadership
Beginning with the Self
Response Styles
Self–disclosure and the Johari Window
Uncertainty Reduction
The Self with Others
Symbolic Interaction
Organizational Culture
Structuration
Facework
Listening
Active Listening
Critical Listening
Barriers to Listening
Nonlistening
Communication Climate
Supportive/Defensive Climates
Race, Gender, and Language
Assessing Your Interpersonal Leadership Style
Summary

Chapter 10 - Goal-Setting
Goal-Setting
Understanding the Group Charge
Goal-Setting Theory
Setting and Attaining Goals
Review of Critical Points in the
Goal-Writing Process
Helping Members Choose a Realistic
Group Goal
Encouraging Realistic Group Goals
Survey for Measuring Member Desire for
Group Achievement
Goal-Setting Planning Model
What Is Strategic Planning, Really?
Why Do We Construct a Strategic Plan?
Goal Implementation
How to Determine When Goals
Have Been Achieved
Leadership Tips
Summary

Chapter 11 - Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, and Decision-Making
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking and Effective Small Groups
How Critical Thinking by Members
Can Support a Small Group
How Small Groups Can Support
Critical Thinking
Barriers to Effective Decision-Making
An Example of a Small Group Decision
Groupthink: A Process Barrier
Structural Barriers
Problem-Solving
Problems and Their Role in
Decision-Making
The Problem-Solving Process

Chapter 12 - Conflict Management
Conflict Within Systems
Conflict Within Groups
Conflict Between Individuals
The Conflict Continuum
The Substance of Conflict
Patterns of Conflict Management
Coping with Conflict Styles
Avoidance
Accommodation
Compromise
Competition
Collaboration
How to Identify Signs and Stages of Conflict
Stages of Conflict
Signs of Conflict Between Members
Signs of Conflict Between Groups of People
Power in Group Conflict
Power in Context
The Leader’s Role and Resources in
Conflict Management
Constructive Conflict Management
Leader as Mediator
How to Be an Effective Mediator
Mediation Activities: Moves and Interventions
Code of Conduct for Participants
Conducting a Mediation Session
Summary

Chapter 13 - Virtual Groups
Virtual Groups
Mediated Groups in an Electronic Age
Information Literacy
Virtual Dimensions
Place
Time
Space
Distance
Sequence of Communication
Preparing for a Virtual Group Meeting
Virtual Communication Ethics
Virtual Communication Tasks
When to Use a Virtual Group
Virtual Group Tools
Impact of Virtual Groups
Creating Successful Virtual Groups
Ensure Accountability
Build Trust
Learn to Adapt
Virtual Group Rules
The Future
Summary

Glossary
index

Peter DeCaro

Peter A. DeCaro’s Small Group Communication Synergy was extremely informative to someone like me who is new to college, and taking a communication class.  Before being introduced to this class, i had no idea communication entailed so much meaning and purpose into my life. Each and every person sends a message, in different ways. How we decide to send these messages are determined through verbal/ non-verbal cues, body language and many other forms. Small Group Communication synergy explained the importance how our behaviors, decisions, and belief systems play a role into becoming an effective communicator. Individualized effective communication is very important to be able to work in a group.

Small Group Communication Synergy discusses the importance of teamwork. To be able to work well with others, have successful careers, and be confident during both large and small group interactions. Throughout this semester I was able to use this text both in and outside of the classroom, by taking advantage of some of the outlined models and theories (Reinforcement, the decision making process, goal theory, etc).

Thanks to Small Group Communication Synergy, i have more insight and knowledge of how i can come across sometimes, when purposing my thoughts to others. I am mindful of the leadership styles, and understand the importance of each role having to work in harmony to be able to really succeed.
Monique, Student

Small groups serve a multitude of purposes in society. Decision-making and problem solving are two of the most typical purposes, with performance as their ultimate goal.

Many small group communication texts focus on the “process” of communication as the end product, or the ultimate goal for small group work. Small Group Communication Synergy is a departure from that view. The text presents communication as the tool--rather than the goal--small groups use to increase individual and group performance.

Written from a performance management perspective, Small Group Communication Synergy:

  • contains references to original theorists and their works, such as -  Kurt Lewin, George C. Homans, and Stanley Milgram -  instead of referring to multiple interpretations by others
  • simply and clearly explains theory to help the reader understand why and how people behave the way they do in a group setting
  • embraces and expands upon the growing use of technology in group and team communication
  • incorporates leadership with performance management – explaining how an effective leader can direct the group to perform at its best with a minimum amount of direction

Chapter 1 - Role of Communication in Groups and Teams
Characteristics of Human Communication
Communication as a Transactional Process
Communication as Shared Meaning
Verbal Communication
Nonverbal Communication
Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
Interconnectedness
Communication as a Regulatory Function
Small Group Communication is Personal
Communication
Interpersonal Communication Competence
Dialectic versus Dialogue
Communication
Cultural Differences
Cultural Norms
What Influences Thinking in Cultures?
What Influences Behavior in Cultures?
Overcoming Language Barriers
Elements of Competence
Gender and Communication
Gender Differences in Communication
Differences Between Feminine and Masculine
Communication
Ethics
Ethics Defined
A Culture’s Code of Ethics Defines
That Culture
Ethical Conduct in Groups
Guidelines for Group Discussion
Effective Discussion Participation
Summary

Chapter 2 - Developing Effective Groups and Teams
What Are Groups?
Why Groups or Teams?
Team Building
The Nature of Group Dynamics
Macro-Theories of Group Dynamics
A Brief History
Kurt Lewin’s “Field Theory”
Robert F. Bales’ Interaction Process Analysis
George C. Homans’ Systems Theory of
Informal Work Groups
Groups and Systems
Initial Elements in Group Systems
Roles in Groups
Individual Accountability
Types of Roles
Role Competence: Norms and Conformity
Becoming Familiar with Colleagues
Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator

Chapter 3 - Power Roles: Members, Leader, and Ethics
Defining Power
Types of Power
Group Members’ Influence
Group and Structural Process
Coercive Methods Create Dysfunctional
Group Processes
Leadership Power
Designated Leader
Emerging Leader
Power and Ethics
Ethical Principles
Summary

Chapter 4 - Leadership and Performance Management
What Is Performance Management?
The ABC Model of Behavior Change
(Antecedents, Behavior, and
Consequences)
Antecedents
Consequences
ABC Analysis: A Problem-Solving Process
The 7-Step ABC Analysis
Reinforcement
Summary

Chapter 5 - Leadership and Leadership Styles
Leadership
Defining Leadership
Competencies of Leadership
Communication Competence
Two Characteristics of Leadership
Vision
Credibility
Recognizing Leaders
Leadership as a Function in a System
Leaders as Mediators
Leadership Styles
Classic Leadership Styles
The Leadership Grid
Determining Appropriate Styles
The Hersey-Blanchard Situational
Leadership Model
Four Basic Situational Leadership Styles
Summary

Chapter 6 - Leadership, Persuasion, and Motivation
Persuasive Theories
Beliefs
Attitudes
Cognitive Dissonance
Expectancy Theory
Expectancy Violation Theory
Attribution Theory
Models of Belief Change
Theory of Reasoned Action
Social Judgment Theory
Compliance-Gaining
Motivational Research
Motives are the “Why’s” of Behavior
Motivational Theories
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Murray’s Inventory of Psychogenic Needs
Alderfer’s ERG Theory
Summary

Chapter 7 - Leadership and Performance Management
What Is Performance Management?
The ABC Model of Behavior Change
(Antecedents, Behavior, and
Consequences)
Antecedents
Consequences
ABC Analysis: A Problem-Solving Process
The 7-Step ABC Analysis
Reinforcement
Summary

Chapter 8 - Leadership and Team Building
Leadership
Decision-Making Process
Problem-Solving Process
Making Teams Work
Behavior Is the Key
Creating the Proper Environment
Managing Teams
Modeling: What to Model
Reinforcement: Know What You
Want to Reinforce
Process versus Content
How to Support the Process
Reinforcing
Summary

Chapter 9 - Interpersonal Communication for Leaders
Interpersonal Communication in Groups
Relational Communication
Relational Dialectics and Group Leadership
Beginning with the Self
Response Styles
Self–disclosure and the Johari Window
Uncertainty Reduction
The Self with Others
Symbolic Interaction
Organizational Culture
Structuration
Facework
Listening
Active Listening
Critical Listening
Barriers to Listening
Nonlistening
Communication Climate
Supportive/Defensive Climates
Race, Gender, and Language
Assessing Your Interpersonal Leadership Style
Summary

Chapter 10 - Goal-Setting
Goal-Setting
Understanding the Group Charge
Goal-Setting Theory
Setting and Attaining Goals
Review of Critical Points in the
Goal-Writing Process
Helping Members Choose a Realistic
Group Goal
Encouraging Realistic Group Goals
Survey for Measuring Member Desire for
Group Achievement
Goal-Setting Planning Model
What Is Strategic Planning, Really?
Why Do We Construct a Strategic Plan?
Goal Implementation
How to Determine When Goals
Have Been Achieved
Leadership Tips
Summary

Chapter 11 - Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, and Decision-Making
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking and Effective Small Groups
How Critical Thinking by Members
Can Support a Small Group
How Small Groups Can Support
Critical Thinking
Barriers to Effective Decision-Making
An Example of a Small Group Decision
Groupthink: A Process Barrier
Structural Barriers
Problem-Solving
Problems and Their Role in
Decision-Making
The Problem-Solving Process

Chapter 12 - Conflict Management
Conflict Within Systems
Conflict Within Groups
Conflict Between Individuals
The Conflict Continuum
The Substance of Conflict
Patterns of Conflict Management
Coping with Conflict Styles
Avoidance
Accommodation
Compromise
Competition
Collaboration
How to Identify Signs and Stages of Conflict
Stages of Conflict
Signs of Conflict Between Members
Signs of Conflict Between Groups of People
Power in Group Conflict
Power in Context
The Leader’s Role and Resources in
Conflict Management
Constructive Conflict Management
Leader as Mediator
How to Be an Effective Mediator
Mediation Activities: Moves and Interventions
Code of Conduct for Participants
Conducting a Mediation Session
Summary

Chapter 13 - Virtual Groups
Virtual Groups
Mediated Groups in an Electronic Age
Information Literacy
Virtual Dimensions
Place
Time
Space
Distance
Sequence of Communication
Preparing for a Virtual Group Meeting
Virtual Communication Ethics
Virtual Communication Tasks
When to Use a Virtual Group
Virtual Group Tools
Impact of Virtual Groups
Creating Successful Virtual Groups
Ensure Accountability
Build Trust
Learn to Adapt
Virtual Group Rules
The Future
Summary

Glossary
index

Peter DeCaro
Peter DeCaro

Peter A. DeCaro’s Small Group Communication Synergy was extremely informative to someone like me who is new to college, and taking a communication class.  Before being introduced to this class, i had no idea communication entailed so much meaning and purpose into my life. Each and every person sends a message, in different ways. How we decide to send these messages are determined through verbal/ non-verbal cues, body language and many other forms. Small Group Communication synergy explained the importance how our behaviors, decisions, and belief systems play a role into becoming an effective communicator. Individualized effective communication is very important to be able to work in a group.

Small Group Communication Synergy discusses the importance of teamwork. To be able to work well with others, have successful careers, and be confident during both large and small group interactions. Throughout this semester I was able to use this text both in and outside of the classroom, by taking advantage of some of the outlined models and theories (Reinforcement, the decision making process, goal theory, etc).

Thanks to Small Group Communication Synergy, i have more insight and knowledge of how i can come across sometimes, when purposing my thoughts to others. I am mindful of the leadership styles, and understand the importance of each role having to work in harmony to be able to really succeed.
Monique, Student