Definition

A group is a collection of two or more individuals, interacting and interdependent, who have come together to achieve particular common objectives. A group is thus, an aggregation of people who interact with each other, are aware of one another, have a common objective and perceive them to be a group.

According to Stephen Robbins, “A group may be defined as two or more individuals, interacting and interdependent, who have come together to achieve particular objectives”.

According to Marvin Shaw, “A group comprises, of two or more persons who interact with one another in such a manner that each person influences and is influenced by each other person”.

Characteristics / Nature of Groups

1. Two or more persons
2. Collective identity
3. Interaction among members
4. Common purpose/ shared goals

Why do people Form and join Groups / Formations

1. Safety and security needs: Example , Trade unions.
2. Relatable or belongingness needs
3. Esteem needs
4. Power:                                                                                                                         (i) There is strength in numbers                                                                     (ii) United we stand , divided we fall.
5. Identity
6. Proximity , interaction and influence
7. Affiliation
8. Huddling

Usefulness Of Group’s / Importance Of Groups In Organization

Groups are useful for task accomplishment and because of their impact on individual behavior.

a. Organizational task accomplishment (performing complex task).
b. Acts as an agent.
c. Group and individual behaviors.
d. Generating new ideas.
e. Serving liaison or coordinating functions.
f. Facilitating the implementation of complex decisions.
g. Serving as a vehicle for training new employees.
h. Serves as a problem solving mechanism.
i. Serves as vehicle of socialization.

Pitfalls of Groups/ Disadvantages

1. Status differentials
2. Group norms
3. Risky and cautious shifts
4. Group Polarizations – this means magnifying a dominant view point.
5. Group thinks
6. Diffusion of responsibility
7. Potential for conflict
8. Costly and time consuming
9. Lack of objective direction and leads to competition

Determinants of Group Behavior

a. Organization strategy
b. Authority structure
c. Formal regulations
d. Organizational resources
e. Procurement of personnel
f. Performance appraisal and reward system
g. Organizational culture
h. Physical work setting

Types of Groups

1. Formal Groups
   Formal groups is made, up of manger’s subordinates or both with close association among group members that influence the behaviour of individuals in the group.
   Examples
   > Command group/standing task group (Ex. Organizational structure)
   > Task group
   > Project group – specific project
   > Committees – discipline committee.
2. Informal Groups
   It is made up of two or more individuals who are associated with one another in ways not prescribed by the formal organization. For example: A few people in the company who get together to play football as the weekend would be considered as informal group.
   Examples
   > Friendship
   > Interest groups – social service
   > Membership and Reference groups
3. General groups – closed group or open group, in group or out group
4. Nominal and non-performing group
5. Temporary and permanent groups
6. Primary and secondary groups

Stages of Group Development (Tuchman)

Group Process

Social facilitation                                                                                                          Social loafing                                                                                                                Communication                                                                                                          Decision – making                                                                                                        Group thinking                                                                                                              Group polarization