EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS OF A DEVELOPMENTAL MODEL FOR TASK-ORIENTED SMALL GROUPS

The purpose of this study was to describe and perform an exploratory analysis of a conceptual model for task-oriented small group development. The four phases of the model were defined as: latency, adaptation, integration, and goal-attainment. To test assumptions of phasic development, data from minute-byminute observations made on 30 groups of undergraduate women were collapsed into quarters and submitted to a one-way multivariate analysis of variance for the purpose of making a priori nonorthogonal comparisons. Results from the initial a priori comparisons and subsequent data-snooping techniques did not confirm the existence of four sequential phases in group development. Results did disclose a pattern of development that began with an extended adaptation phase covering most of the first half of group interaction. Groups characteristically shifted into a partially defined integration phase where affectivity and neutrality themes appeared to follow each other. Goal-attainment themes were most prominent during the final quarter of interaction.     

Relational Control and Interactive Media Choice in Technology-Mediated Communication Situations

The study develops a framework to examine the communication goals of interacting partners and how these affect media choice. The study hypothesizes that in communication situations when the relational dimension of communication goals is competitive, relational control would affect media choice. Personal interviews were conducted among a nonrandom sample of 70 persons. The respondents were presented with different communication situations and asked if and why they would select one mode of communication over another. A content analysis of the responses supported the main argument of the study that in situations of relational competitiveness relational control would be a significant factor affecting media choice.     

SEQUENTIAL STRUCTURE OF INTERACTION IN ENCOUNTER GROUPS

This study investigated patterned distribution of communication across time in an effort to assess temporal development in T-groups through the use of verbal interaction measures. Two groups conducted with a “meaning-attribution” facilitation style had their verbal interaction recorded as contiguous units of communication. Factor analysis of interaction categories produced nine dimensions labeled: Antagonistic, Assertive-Supportive, Dominant Assertive, Aggressive-Assertive, Assertive, Reactions to Group Laughter, Task-Determining Activity, Reactions to Group Tension, and Supportive-ness. Analysis of the cell means indicated three separate stages of group life could be extrapolated from the sequential distribution of interaction: Boundary-seeking, Ambivalence, and Actualization.