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What Is Meant by Group? “the Balance Theory of Theodore Newcomb Is a Comprehensive Theory of Group Formation.” Explain.

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What Is Meant by Group? “the Balance Theory of Theodore Newcomb Is a Comprehensive Theory of Group Formation.” Explain.
What is meant by group? “The balance theory of Theodore Newcomb is a comprehensive theory of group formation.” Explain.

Ans:

A group may be defined as a collection of two or more people who work with one another regularly to achieve common goals. In a group, members are mutually dependent on one another to achieve common goals, and they interact with one another regularly to pursue those goals. Effective groups help organizations accomplish important tasks. In particular, they offer the potential for synergy—the creation of a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. When synergy occurs, groups accomplish more than the total of their members’ individual capabilities.

Theodore Newcomb Balance Theory
Balance theory states that when tensions arise between or inside people, they attempt to reduce these tensions through self-persuasion or trying to persuade others.

Individual Interpretations:
My interpretation of Balance theory is that individuals have certain attitudes which can be represented by a plus sign (like) or a minus sign (dislike). Every individual has their own opinions therefore people do not always agree on the same things which creates a feeling of discomfort or imbalance. Two people may feel the same about an idea and therefore agree on it so they have a feeling of comfort or balance.

Metatheoretical Assumptions:
Balance theory is Humanistic. Epistemologically this theory has multiple truths in that humans try to reduce tension through self-persuasion or persuading others. Ontologically this theory represents free will in that people choose whether or not they like or dislike something. Axiologically, this theory is more value-laden in that the theoretical propositions are subjective and biased.

Critique:
Balance theory presents analytic consistency in that the theoretical assumptions fit together. The method of investigation in this theory is timely. The theory is practical, and has heuristic value in that it can be applied

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