Analyzes proposition that scapegoat role emerges in small groups to permit member distancing from intrapsychic and interpersonal conflict through displacement. Describes small group scapegoating and its consequences. (Author/CM)

Following Bennis and Shepard's work, groups are thought to become preoccupied with problems of gaining reassurance about six basic human tasks in turn. One can show that these problems, called focal problems, have two forms, inclusive and narrowed, and that progressing through the problems requires three subphases. (Author/ABL)

Describes a model for sequential stages of group development based on yogic chakra system. Compares chakra-based model with other models of group developmental stages. Using context of chakra system, specifies basic dynamic issues and leader interventions for each stage and discusses relationship of individual development to group process. (Author)

Hierarchical linear models distinguish between the individual and the group levels of data. Hence, they are often referred to as multilevel models. It is easiest to think of hierarchical linear models as special regression models that allow simultaneous investigation of the respective roles that individual and group characteristics play in the…

Reviews literature concerning newcomers in groups in different settings. Presents a general model examining factors felt to be important for successful assimilation in group psychotherapy, i.e., overcoming resistance to join group, clarifying group process, examining client's in-group behavior, and confirming client's expectations. (BH)

Describes personal transformation in small groups method that employs Matrix Model as its operational structure in Part I of two-part article. Describes method's reliance on metaphors and nature and manner in which they are employed. Defines personal transformation within framework of analytical psychology. (Author/CM)

Examines process of leave-taking (termination) in terms of social goals and remedial and reciprocal models of group works. Presents typology of termination. Discusses termination reactions and related activity patterns. Notes practice principles of group leaders including timing, leader-member decision making and evaluation, management of…

The purposes of this paper are to note specific weaknesses characterizing small group research and to propose suggestions for their solution. Adapted from a speech given at the Second National Conference about the Teaching of Group: Theory and Practice, Temple University, Philadelphia, February 1976. (Author)

Presents the second part of a report on the matrix model for the study of small groups considering implications of the model and its translation into operational terms. Addresses primary group tasks such as identity formation, modes of relating, and reality adaptation. (LLL)

Argues importance of communication for group decision-making performance and its impact on such performance are function of three task characteristics: structure, information requirement, and evaluation demand. Identifies task circumstances in which group communication can be expected to play role in determining decision-making performance, as…

Franklin and Marshall College and Gustavus Adolphus College have withdrawn recognition of their fraternities and sororities, and Bowdoin College has proposed a wide-ranging reform of its Greek system. These actions came in response to a deterioration of behavior by members of the Greek organizations. (MLW)

Maintains that coalitions form as a function of the popularity of an individual and the reciprocation between individuals. An algorithm is introduced, incorporating both popularity and reciprocation components, to generate units of analysis for coalition identification. The algorithm reflects aspects of the whole group and intensity of dyads.…

Discusses the development and description of a comprehensive framework to explain small group behavior labeled the Matrix Model. Argues that a synthesis of knowledge from the adaptive, developmental, structural, transactional, and gestalt points of view will provide a more meaningful and useful understanding of small groups. (LLL)

Examines proposition that covert roles within a group are assigned to individual group members based on their propensity to verbally or nonverbally express certain patterns of unwanted, disowned, and projected emotions that are experienced as threatening by other members. Focuses on articulating a model, describing a method, and presenting…

Fraternities are criticized for deteriorating student behavior, but college administrations are also under fire for not controlling or taking responsibility for the organizations. Conflict over the organizations' value continues. (MSE)