64 Outcome: Group Dynamics

Define types of groups and describe how group dynamics are impacted by leadership, size, and conformity

“Would you jump off a cliff just because your friends are doing it?” You may think about this age-old question differently after reading this section about groups and conformity. You’ll see that the pressure to conform with a group sometimes leads people to do uncharacteristic and sometimes obviously stupid things. You’ll also learn that the size and leadership styles of a group greatly affects how members act. Even weak connections with others form an important network that provide us with benefits and opportunities, as explained in the following video:

What you’ll learn to do:

• Understand primary and secondary groups, in-groups and out-groups, and reference groups
• Describe how size influences group dynamics
• Compare different styles of leadership
• Explain how conformity is impacted by groups

LEARNING ACTIVITIES

The learning activities for this section include:

• Reading: Types of Groups
• Reading: Group Size and Structure
• Reading: Leadership Styles
• Reading: Conformity
• Self-Check: Group Dynamics