Theory
Both formal and informal, help people make intelligent decisions about how to conduct themselves.
Theory
Has two basic functions: 1) To explain 2) To predict
Theory Building
A. Observe a phenomenon
B. Witness repeated pattern
C. Develop explanation
Self-Concept
Influences the choices you make
Definition of Theory
A. Way of binding together multitude of facts so that they may be comprehended all at once
B. Enables us to make reasonably precise predictions that may be termed scientific
C. Crucial to the study of small group communication
Explanatory Function
Helps people understand why some groups are effective while others are not. Or while certain styles of leadership are appropriate in some situations and not in others.
Explanatory Function
A. Explanation power of good theory
B. Helps make sense of processes involved
C. When people interact with others in group
Predictive Function
If you can reasonably predict certain outcome will follow certain types of communication. you can regulate your behavior to acheive the most desirable results
Complexity
1) Who you think you are
2) Who you think the other person is
3) Who you think the other person thinks you are
4) Who the other person thinks he or she is
5) Who the other person thinks you are
6) Who the other person thinks, you think he or she is
Five Group Theories
1) Systems Theory
2) Social Exchange Theory
3) Symbolic Convergence Theory
4) Structuration Theory
5)Functional Theory
Systems Theory
The most prevelent and promising approach to small group communication.
Flexible enough to encompass the vast array of variables that influence group and team interaction
An open system
System Theory: Variables
*Interdependence- None of the variables may be understood in isolation
*Input Variables- Group members, group resourses, tools, knowledge
*Process Variables- procedures that the group follows to reach goals
*Output Variables- The outcome of the group proc
Systems Theory
A. Openness to environment: interaction and climate
B. Interdependence: cohesiveness
C. Input variables: funds, tools, knowledge, purpose, relationships
D. Process variables: procedures to reach goals
E. Output variables: decision making to personal growt
Social Exchange Theory
A. Rewards- Pleasurable outcomes
B. Costs- Mental Effort, Anxiety or Embarrassment
C. Profits- Equals rewards - The Cost
Symbolic Convergence Theory
A. Fantasies and stories shape a group's identity and culture
B. Influence dynamics such as norms, roles and decision making
C. Results in collective consciousness
Structuration Theory
Provides a general framework that explains how people structure their groupsby making active use of rules and resources. Focuses the attention on the individuals behavior in groups, rather than the dynamics of the group
Structuration Theory
A. Rules: implied prescription; learned from previous group encounters
B. Resources
C. Interaction
Functional Theory
A. Effect or consequence of behavior on group
B. Identify and explain behavior that helps group achieve goals
Constellation of Variables
A. Communication- How we make sense of the world
B. Leadership- the behavior the exerts influence over group
C. Goals- The end result or objective
D. Norms- Determines which behaviors are permitted or
encouraged and which are forbidden
E. Roles- Sets of e