Investigates the nature of breakpoints, or the introduction of new topics, as they occur in group decision making processes. Defines breakpoints, analyzes the utility of the concept of breakpoints in group discussion, and offers tentative conclusions about the nature of group interaction. (SRT)

Discusses support groups for the bereaved: their organization, function, processes, role of professionals, and the use of such groups for professional training. (Author)

Suggests that quasi-theories may link symbolic interactionism and negotiated order theory. The proposal theory is grounded in a case study of a university sabbatical leave committee. Situational response is explained in regard to the microsocial processes of cure selection and cure justification, rather than relying on macrosocial issues.…

Examines what we know and don't know about group leadership and concludes that current metaphors which guide inquiry into leadership are incapable of dealing with the complexity inherent in the phenomenon. Describes and adapts an alternative metaphor, leader as medium, to group communication as relationships. (BH)

Charts the development of the Family Therapy Consortium, a group that provides supervision and continuing education in family therapy and explores the peer supervision process at work in the consortium. The focus is on individual and group development, which are seen as complementary aspects of the same growth process. (Author/NRB)

A recent survey of coaches ranks team cohesion as the most critical problem coaches face. Optimal interpersonal relationships among athletes and their coaches can maximize collective performance. Team dynamics are discussed and coaching tips are provided. (MT)

Philosophers of education tend to stress the importance of analytic and scientific thinking. A discussion of how dialectical reasoning, as developed by Jean Paul Sartre, can contribute to educational thought is offered. (DF)

Identifies components of group process and describes leader functions. Discusses personal elements, focus of interaction/psychological distance, group development, content, quality of interaction, and self-reflective/meaning attribution, illustrated by a case study of a group of persons (N=5) arrested for drunk driving. (JAC)

Discusses problems associated with NCTE's Conference on English Education and recommends ways to improve the organization. (FL)

Communication among hearing and hearing impaired professionals can be improved by attention to preparation factors (such as careful consideration of the arrangement of the meeting room), aspects of the conduct of the meeting (including discouraging side conversations), and wise use of interpreters. (CL)

Describes attempts to form a communication group among male and female inmates. The failure of this effort is discussed with emphasis on the special problems and needs of groups in prisons and the lack of insight among the institution's administration and staff. (JAC)

Reviews research on group problem solving and offers suggestions for improving participation and task accomplishment in the workshop format. (JOW)

Contrasts open and closed therapeutic groups in the context of group development research, and reanalyzes data applying the Hill Interaction Matrix. Results supported the existence of a discernable process of development in the closed groups, while open groups with residual members showed counterproductive activity. (LLL)

Describes a counseling group comprised of people concerned with elderly family members. Group members found both information and emotional support, and all suggested that the group be continued. Challenges counselors to meet the need for similar groups. (JAC)

Observed college students (N=195) divided according to sex and measures of wittiness to determine the effects of humor on problem solving in groups. Results showed that group composition was not a crucial issue in problem-solving performance, but that humerous group interaction was, and did not interfere with ongoing task performance. (LLL)