““What do you do when a person…?” Dot, dot, dot. As Small Groups Pastor, what’s about to follow is a question about handling a certain type of personality during a small group meeting” (Mason, n.d, para. 1). This question could just as easily have been uttered to an HR manager within in a business setting. Small group interactions can be complex at times, but can yield great personal growth and satisfaction. Therefore, it is imperative that as individuals we arm ourselves with knowledge to not only help us grow but help move the group forward in a positive and uplifting manner. As such, this paper will examine the relevancy of background factors of individuals within a small group, the ideal size for a small group, and lastly, investigate
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These factors can be classified into 6 categories: personality, gender, age, health, attitudes, and values. However, how does this affect a person’s participation in a group? The diversity within these factors creates the individuality and uniqueness that strongly influence the individual’s participation and contribution within the group. For example, personality is a factor, as the type of personality defines the needs and thought patterns that will significantly influence the type and level of contributions and participation in group interactions.
Furthermore, these factors’ influence on the level of participation for each member within the group has far reaching effects on the longevity of the group. This can be seen in the research by Moreland, Levine, & Wingert(1996) when they state: “Most researchers regard group composition as a cause that can influence many other aspects of group life, including group structure, dynamics, and performance” (p. 12). Therefore, one needs to be cognizant of the factors that influence each member that make up the small group
These factors can be classified into 6 categories: personality, gender, age, health, attitudes, and values. However, how does this affect a person’s participation in a group? The diversity within these factors creates the individuality and uniqueness that strongly influence the individual’s participation and contribution within the group. For example, personality is a factor, as the type of personality defines the needs and thought patterns that will significantly influence the type and level of contributions and participation in group interactions.
Furthermore, these factors’ influence on the level of participation for each member within the group has far reaching effects on the longevity of the group. This can be seen in the research by Moreland, Levine, & Wingert(1996) when they state: “Most researchers regard group composition as a cause that can influence many other aspects of group life, including group structure, dynamics, and performance” (p. 12). Therefore, one needs to be cognizant of the factors that influence each member that make up the small group