Psy400 Group Influence Research Paper
Group Influence
Michelle Harriman
PSY400
February 2, 2015
Sherri Sedler
Group Influence The intent of this paper is to discuss the dynamics of a group of coworkers and peers form the perspective of social psychology. The group will be analyzed in relation to the formation of norms, roles, hierarchy, potential groupthink, and any communication patterns as observed.
A social interaction within a group of two or more people creates a group environment. These groups create a social power, or group dynamic, that influences the perceptions of the individuals of the group (Myers, 2010). The dynamic is directly related to the behaviors and actions of individual group members. Each interaction between group members has the potential to impact …show more content…
The meeting was opened with a moment of silence to reflect followed by the Serenity Prayer. This is intended to allow the meeting to begin with a unified intention by all members. The circle allows all members of the group to view each other directly and fosters a sense of equality, each member having the same value as the next. While the director is the official facilitator of the meeting, other senior members direct discussion that relate to their areas of responsibility. The hierarchy is established from the owner down to the newest staff member for purposes of chain of command and final decision making authority however, final decisions are not made until each member with information to share are given the opportunity to do so. An agenda is provided to each member of the group to allow for smooth transition between topics. Announcements of events, new residents, and other important points are shared at the beginning of the meeting. Explanations of these items are also shared for the benefit of new staff members and each is encouraged to ask questions to ensure all staff is fully informed. Any concerns are addressed in the moment and conversation was open and permitted each member to share in the discussion
Michelle Harriman
PSY400
February 2, 2015
Sherri Sedler
Group Influence The intent of this paper is to discuss the dynamics of a group of coworkers and peers form the perspective of social psychology. The group will be analyzed in relation to the formation of norms, roles, hierarchy, potential groupthink, and any communication patterns as observed.
A social interaction within a group of two or more people creates a group environment. These groups create a social power, or group dynamic, that influences the perceptions of the individuals of the group (Myers, 2010). The dynamic is directly related to the behaviors and actions of individual group members. Each interaction between group members has the potential to impact …show more content…
The meeting was opened with a moment of silence to reflect followed by the Serenity Prayer. This is intended to allow the meeting to begin with a unified intention by all members. The circle allows all members of the group to view each other directly and fosters a sense of equality, each member having the same value as the next. While the director is the official facilitator of the meeting, other senior members direct discussion that relate to their areas of responsibility. The hierarchy is established from the owner down to the newest staff member for purposes of chain of command and final decision making authority however, final decisions are not made until each member with information to share are given the opportunity to do so. An agenda is provided to each member of the group to allow for smooth transition between topics. Announcements of events, new residents, and other important points are shared at the beginning of the meeting. Explanations of these items are also shared for the benefit of new staff members and each is encouraged to ask questions to ensure all staff is fully informed. Any concerns are addressed in the moment and conversation was open and permitted each member to share in the discussion