CHAPTER RECAP

  • A small group is composed of three or more interdependent persons who share a common identity and come together to achieve a common goal.
  • Small groups develop in stages that include forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning.
  • To achieve their goals, members of small groups balance group roles, build cohesiveness, establish norms, share responsibility, and manage physical space.
  • Your self influences how you communicate in a group, specifically your levels of communication apprehension or argumentativeness and even your culture and gender.
  • Virtual small groups are increasingly common at work or school. Though they have specific challenges, you can overcome them by carefully planning the tools and messages you employ.