Group Dynamics - Concept

Publication: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingArticles for encyclopediaResearch

Abstract

The term ‘group dynamics’ focuses on groups as dynamic systems. Specifically, groups are dynamic in relation to their structure, characteristics, or intragroup processes, and changes over time affect the nature of the group as a whole (i.e., its formation, development, and disbandment) as well as its functioning or subsequent outcomes (i.e., psycho-social outcomes, performance). In the past decades, several theories and models have been developed to explain principles and mechanisms of groups as dynamic systems. In general, these theories and models focus on interpersonal forces (e.g., field 119Group Cohesion Group Dynamics—Concept theory; Lewin, 1951; balance theory; Heider, 1958), shared cognitive elements of group members (e.g., social identity theory; Tajfel & Turner, 1986; transactive memory; Wegner, Erber, & Raymond, 1991) or intragroup-behavior (e.g., interaction process analysis; Bales, 1976). Within these perspectives, dynamics are operationalized by the variation of multi-psychological constellations (i.e., the interaction of at least two psychic systems), which contain the tendency to enhance similarity or balance and to reduce dissimilarity or tension. However, dissimilarity and tension are not automatically problematic, and can be considered necessary for effective group development.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationDictionary of Sport Psychology : Sport, Exercise, and Performing Arts
EditorsDieter Hackfort, Robert J. Schinke, Bernd Strauss
Number of pages2
Place of PublicationLondon
PublisherAcademic press
Publication date2019
Pages119-120
ISBN (Print)978-0-12-813150-3
ISBN (Electronic)978-0-12-813151-0
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019

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