Small Group Analysis

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success-Henry Ford” ("Team Work," n.d, para. 2). These words from Henry Ford can effectively be applied to the lifecycle of a small group. As humans, we encounter the complexities and challenges within a small group setting on a daily basis. As such, it is imperative to study and implement effective strategies to ensure successful interactions within these groups. For this reason, this paper will analyze a small group and the various aspects that pertain to it. It will include relevant background factors that influence the team, leadership styles that are utilized, decision making strategies, and conflict management strategies that are applied during the
These factors largely determine how team members will interact and engage with each other. As such, Moreland, Levine, & Wingert (1996) states: “Most researchers regard group composition as a cause that can influence many other aspects of group life, including group structure, dynamics, and performance” (p. 12). Therefore, the background factors that directly influence group dynamics include personality, gender, age, health, attitudes, and values (Tubbs, 2012). Accordingly, each member’s background information will be discussed.
A. John (Team Leader)
John has effective communication skills, decisive decision making abilities, and excels in logical thinking. He is in introvert and falls into the ISTJ personality type (16 Personalities, n.d.). His logical thinking can present challenges for the “F” type personalities who value people above tasks. Therefore, it would be beneficial for John to determine the personality types of each of his team to ensure all round effective communication.
John is about 10 years older than his subordinates and can provide guidance and mentorship to his team. Also, as his team has both male and females, he needs to ensure that communication stays professional, on task, and respectful at all times. Next, John is in good health and as such he can perform his duties without
Next, as a female Anna has to be aware of the different communication styles between males and females and thus understand her team’s communication patterns. Finally, Anna is healthy and can fulfill her obligation, and handle the pressures that the position brings. She has a positive attitude that helps her tackle tough challenges. She is able to motivate her fellow team members and thereby create a positive environment that drives the team forward. Finally, she has a solid value system that is in line with the team group