Examines group structure and process through a serious consideration of word play of group members. Issues explored include ways in which metaphors externalize emotions, human identities are constructed metaphorically, interactional situations are managed metaphorically, and humor is related to dominance. (RC)

Summarizes and critiques 114 studies on small group communication published in speech communication journals between 1969 and 1979. Classifies the literature into three new lines of research focusing on communication variables of small group processes and three traditional lines of research, namely, leadership, discussion, and pedagogy. (JMF)

Identifies and compares the patterns of communication of groups making risky and cautious decision shifts. Risky- and cautious-shift group discussions displayed nonrandom and statistically different distributional and sequential structures. Findings are discussed in terms of two explanations of the risky- shift phenomenon. (JMF)

Discusses the history, constitutionality, and advisability of group libel legislation in light of increased activism on the part of hate groups and their appeal for First Amendment protection. (JMF)

The group strategies that are discussed include brainstorming, problem solving, debate, games, the lecture forum, open forums, panel discussion, question and answer sessions, role playing, quizzes, roundtable discussions, success-storytelling, and the symposium. (RL)

This game focuses on techniques for identifying coalitions or subgroups within larger social systems; and generates a wealth of data that not only serve to dramatize social dynamics, but also can be used to identify the structure of coalitions and the degree to which particular individuals exert interpersonal influence. (Author/CMV)

Presents an exercise to facilitate employee understanding and implementation of planned organizational change, along with techniques to introduce the concept of change into organization development workshops or supervisory training efforts. Describes barriers that stimulate resistance to change and ways to promote acceptance of organizational…

Cybernetic sessions allow for the investigation of several variables concurrently, resulting in a large volume of input compacted into a concise time frame. Three session questions are reproduced to illustrate the variety of ideas generated relative to workshop design. (Author)

Comparisons were made of attitudes and behavior between single- and multiperson teams in business simulation games. Multiperson games gave rise to higher initial goals for business success, but lower individual feelings of responsibility for outcome. (CMV)

Attempts to determine social intimacy of closest friendships of black college students as it was perceived from ego's perception of his (her) friendship unit. Examines social intimacy from the structural characteristics (dyad, double dyad, triad) of the association, and from closest friendships formed by individuals of the same sex and of the…

Examines the role of interpersonal needs for control and affection in influencing members' attitudinal reactions to the trainer and the group. Results indicate no support for the two-stage, authority-intimacy sequence suggested by much of the research on group development. (Author)

Describes the structure, leadership, content patterns, techniques, and research questions that have grown out of group experience in dealing with adolescent pregnancy. (Author/RK)

Summarizes practical advice gleaned from setting up a "corporate university." Provides tips for corporate developmental program efforts. (LAS)

To ensure future leadership qualities, educators must impart the skills of problem solving and working together effectively. One strategy for doing this is illustrated by teachers and students at Hartwick College (New York) utilizing Project Adventure techniques in extracurricular group problem-solving activities. (SAS)

Examines application of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to group decision-making and evaluation situations in higher education. The approach is illustrated by (1) evaluation of academic research papers at Villanova University (Pennsylvania), and (2) a suggested adaptation for the more complex problem of institutionwide strategic planning.…