There are two basic types of small groups. Primary groups are the individuals who meet your basic life, psychological, and social needs. For instance, your family and friends protect you from harm and loneliness. (Or at least you hope they will!) Interpersonal communication skills—such as self-disclosure and relational maintenance—are important for developing and maintaining primary group relationships.

Secondary groups consist of people with whom you want to achieve specific goals or perform tasks. Some secondary groups have a short life, such as neighbors brainstorming ideas for a Fourth of July block party. Other secondary groups work together over long periods of time, like the teams at Pixar. Table 11.1 lists different types of secondary groups you might be part of at school, in your community, or at work. In this chapter, we explore the concepts and skills you need to communicate competently in secondary groups.