Understanding the Development and Purpose of 'Groups'

Introduction

Groups are composed to achieve many different things. Some are highly task oriented while others are more process. Groups develop to complete a task, to solve a problem, or a combination of tasks and problem solving. Development of groups begin with individuals coming together to form the group. “A group is a living entity that transcends and cannot be explained by individual experience.” (Wheelan, 2005 p. 1). Keeping this thought in mind then it is important to think about why we develop groups and once we do develop them, how do they develop over time. Several theorist have offered an answer to the question of group theory and development, including several different models as a way to explain group dynamics. The model’s we will focus on in this paper are; Sequential model’s proposed by Tuckman and further revised by Jensen (Hingst, 2006); Cyclic models proposed initially by Bion (Wheelan, 2005); Life cycle model proposed by Burnand, Mann, Mills and others (Wheelan, 2005); Equilibrium models, and adaptive/nonsequential models. To understand groups, we need to understand how they develop, what keeps them moving, and how groups move as an autonomous unit.

Sequential Models

Sequential model of group development presume that all groups move through a series of phase’s that are in succession and chronological. The model introduces the idea that there are steps each group goes through and that the steps are in order. Sequential model also indicates that when new members are introduced to the already formed group the group can go back to earlier steps to get the individual acclimated to the group (Hingst, 2006). Tuckman in 1965 (Wheelan, 2005) developed steps that seem to be the most popular recognition...

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...p member feels as though the group is very different than other groups they belong to, such as their gender, culture, ethnicity, or family groups. Group members either become attracted to the group or want to escape the group (Smith, 2001).

The next sub-phase is the disenchantment/ fight phase. This is the phase where group members either become uncomfortable when personal issues are discussed, and those that want these personal issues discussed. In this sub-phase, much like the resolution/ catharsis stage, where a third sub-group develops that attempts to mediate between the two groups (Wheelan, 2005).

The sixth and final sub-phase is the final resolution/ catharsis phase. This final stage is where the members of the group have come to a common agreement on norms and expectations and they can engage in the task that brought them together to begin with.