6.9 Group dynamics

Question 1

Explain what is meant by group dynamics

Answer 1

Individuals that have to work together to achieve a goal - this may include perfoming different functions to make the team unit complete

Question 2

Identify what aspects are required for a successful group dynamic

Answer 2

• A collective identity (same kit gives a sense of pride)
• Interaction with each-other (communication)
• Share a common goal
• Having mutual awareness (they depend on one another)

Question 3

Identify and explain the theory regarding group dynamics

Answer 3

Tuckman’s model suggests that “There are four stages a group goes through in order to begin working together effectively:”

1. Forming
2. Storming
3. Norming
4. Performing

Question 4

“There are four stages a group goes through in order to begin working together effectively:”

1. Forming
2. Storming
3. Norming
4. Performing

Answer 4

Tuckman’s model

Question 5

Identify and explain the first stage suggested by Tuckamans model

Answer 5

1. Forming: this is when group members get together. Roles and responsibilities are unclear. Members start to work together and decide if they fit in.

Question 6

Identify and explain the second stage suggested by Tuckamans model

Answer 6

2. Storming: is the stage of potential conflict as members may compete with each other for certain roles/responsibilities. Goals are unclear and boundaries of authority are pushed.

Question 7

Identify and explain the third stage suggested by Tuckamans model

Answer 7

3. Norming: conflict is resolved and the team begins to settle. The goal is clarified and there is greater commitment to achieving the goal. Group cohesion develops.

Question 8

Identify and explain the fourth stage suggested by Tuckamans model

Answer 8

4. Performing: players interact effectively as there is full commitment to achieving goals. Individuals roles and responsibilities are completely understood and respected.

Question 9

Briefly explain what is meant by group cohesion

Answer 9

Team members working together to achieve a goal. There are two types of cohesion:

1. Task cohesion
2. Social cohesion

Question 10

Explain and describe task cohesion

Answer 10

Task cohesion: when group members work together to meet a common goal. They do not socialise away from team, however, come together in the sporting environment. Team members rely on each-other.

Question 11

Explain and describe social cohesion

Answer 11

Social cohesion: when group members get along with each other. They support and communicate inside and outside the sporting environment. Important in co-active sports where you perform individually but your effort contributes to a whole team performance.

Question 12

“There are four factors or antecedents that affect task and social cohesion”

Answer 12

Carrons antecedents

Question 13

Explain what Carrons theory of antecedents suggests

Answer 13

“There are four factors or antecedents that affect task and social cohesion”

(PELT)
1. Personal
2. Environmental
3. Leadership
4. Team

Question 14

Explain the factors or antecedents in Carrons antecedent theory

Answer 14

(PELT)

1. Personal: level of motivation or if characteristics are shared such as age, gender, ability
2. Environmental: location or size of group
3. Leadership: relationship between leader and group member
4. Team: the stability of the group, common experiences in victory or defeat

Question 15

“The result of group effort could be based on an equation that sums up the influences on cohesion”

AP = PP - FP

Answer 15

Steiner’s model of group performance

Question 16

Explain Steiners model of group performance

Answer 16

“The result of group effort could be based on an equation that sums up the influences on cohesion”

Actual Productivity =
Potential productivity -
Faulty process

Question 17

Explain Steiners equation representing influences on cohesion

Answer 17

Actual Productivity = Potential productivity - Faulty process

AP: the teams level of achievement in a task
PP: the teams best possible level of achievement
FP: Factors that go wrong in the team and prevent cohesion

Question 18

Steiner suggested that teams face many problems which affect their productivity, such as:

Answer 18

• Co-ordination problems: communication
• Team member failing to understand their role in the team
• Lack of understanding strategies/tactics
• Motivation losses
• Social loafing