Question

Explain the four important elements of group structure. 4

Hint:

{Four Elements of Group Structure:}

• {Roles:} What members do (expected behaviors)
• {Norms:} Rules that guide behavior (what's acceptable)
• {Status:} Ranking of members (who has influence)
• {Cohesiveness:} Bond that holds group together

Answer 1

Group structure refers to the stable patterns of relationships, norms, and roles that develop within a group over time. The four important elements of group structure are: 1. Roles:

• Definition: Expected patterns of behavior associated with particular positions within the group
• Types of Roles:
  • Formal/Assigned Roles: Officially designated positions (leader, secretary, treasurer)
  • Informal/Emergent Roles: Develop naturally based on personality and interaction (peacemaker, joker, critic, nurturer)
• Importance:
  • Provides clarity about expectations and responsibilities
  • Facilitates division of labor and efficiency
  • Helps members understand their place and contribution
• Role Issues: Role conflict (competing demands), role ambiguity (unclear expectations), role strain (overwhelming demands)

2. Norms:

• Definition: Shared expectations and rules that guide behavior of group members
• Types of Norms:
  • Explicit Norms: Clearly stated rules (attendance policy, confidentiality)
  • Implicit Norms: Unspoken, understood rules (how to address members, appropriate topics)
• Functions of Norms:
  • Provide predictability and stability
  • Regulate member behavior and maintain order
  • Express group values and identity
  • Create group cohesion and conformity
• Example: In a therapy group, norm of confidentiality allows members to share openly

3. Status:

• Definition: The relative social position or rank of members within the group hierarchy
• Bases of Status:
  • Formal positiouthority (leader, expert)
  • Personal characteristics (seniority, expertise, attractiveness)
  • Contribution to group goals
  • Social power and influence
• Effects of Status:
  • High-status members have more influence and privileges
  • Their contributions are often valued more highly
  • They may be given more freedom to deviate from norms
  • Status differences can create hierarchy and power dynamics
• Example: In a work group, the project manager has higher status than interns

4. Cohesiveness:

• Definition: The force that binds group members together and maintains their commitment to the group
• Factors Affecting Cohesiveness:
  • Interpersonal attraction among members
  • Shared goals and values
  • Success in achieving group objectives
  • External threats or competition
  • Time spent together and positive interactions
• Benefits of Cohesiveness:
  • Greater member satisfaction and participation
  • Better communication and cooperation
  • Increased conformity to group norms
  • Higher productivity (when group goals align with organizational goals)
• Potential Drawbacks: Groupthink, resistance to new members, pressure to conform

Interrelationship of Elements:

• These four elements interact dynamically. Strong cohesiveness can strengthen adherence to norms. Clear roles reduce status conflicts. Well-defined status hierarchies can enhance role clarity.

Thus, roles, norms, status, and cohesiveness together form the structural foundation that shapes how groups function and interact.