Group Dynamics and the Public Sphere - Group Dynamics
6 important questions on Group Dynamics and the Public Sphere - Group Dynamics
How do we define a group?
In his 2000 book, Rupert Brown suggests the following definition: a group consists of two or more people who identify themselves as members of the group. Additionally, the group's existence must be recognized by at least one other person who is not a group member.
Did psychoanalysis have any influence on the study of group dynamics?
From working in clinical settings, these clinicians recognized that group dynamics influenced the ways people relate to each other. Specifically, they noticed the ways that group members formed alliances with each other, split into different factions, and aligned with, and then rebelled against, group leaders.
Wilfred Bion (1897-1979) was a pioneer in this movement. Another influential clinician in the group therapy movement is the psychiatrist Irvin Yalom (1931-).
What is group identity?
For example, specific rituals, forms of dress, and speech patterns can help distinguish group members from nonmembers and thus promote group identity. We see this with teenage cliques, religious groups, and even military regiments.
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How does group identity affect personal identity?
Moreover, our self-esteem is impacted by our status and value within the group as well as the group's status in relation to other groups. People who belong to low status or devalued groups suffer damage to their self-esteem. Likewise, people can gain self-esteem by joining a group that vaues them and/or is valued by others.
What are group norms?
What function do initiation rituals serve?
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