IRE260H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 5: Social Comparison Theory, Abilene Paradox, Peer Pressure
15 Oct 2018
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Document Summary
A group consists of two or more people interacting interdependently to achieve a common goal. Interaction is the most basic aspect of a group. Interdependence means that group members rely to some degree on each other to accomplish goals. Groups provide a context in which we are able to exert influence on others. Group members try to orient themselves by testing the waters. The situation is often ambiguous, and members are aware of their dependency on each other. Confrontation and criticism occur as members determine whether they will go along with the way the group is developing. Sorting out roles and responsibilities is often an issue. Members resolve the issues that provoked the storming, and they develop social consensus. Norms are agreed on and the group becomes more cohesive. The group devotes its energies toward task accomplishment. Achievement, creativity, and mutual assistance are prominent themes at this stage.
