Defining factors of Small Group Communication

When defining Small Group Communication one must take many factors into consideration.  The number to which a small group is referred to consists of at least three individuals.  With three or more in the group, there is chance for a majority decision and ability for a coalition to be formed.  Small Group Communication is often referred to by its building of coalitions and two against one strategies.  Generally, within the small group, there are from three to fifteen members.  The group is best small because when more people are added, there is less room for group members to talk as much or interact as well.  The duration of the group is the same as many groups.  The span is set until the goal at hand is achieved.  Within the group, there is an issue of leadership .  Yet, leadership within the small group is not set in stone.  Rather it is manifested and can change whenever.  Likewise, leadership can easily shift from group member to group member.  There are many common interests, traits, and expectations group members experience as they go into the small group.  After all, people are usually attracted to a group to which they feel comfortable and find a compatibility with.  However, independence within the group is also appreciated when looking for perspectives amongst the group.  Interaction within the small group should always be a positive one to insure progress and stability.  Face to face meetings are best so that everyone knows what page each member is on.  Yet, information for the group can always be found in mediums.  These outside sources can help the small group with interaction as well.
 

Context of Small Group Communication

As Small Group Communication is set apart by its formation of coalitions and group interaction, there are other forms of communication which are distinctly different from Small Group Communication.  Self-Communication is different from Small Group Communication because it concentrates on problem solving within one s self.  Thus, one person is involved in such issues as problem-solving and other parts of communication.  Beginning the process of socialization is the next form of communication, Interpersonal Communication.  This form of communication deals with people on a one-to-one basis.  Yet, it differs from the small group because it does not usually deal with people on a  group level.  Another form of communication is referred to as Public Communication.  In this communication, there is one sender of information;  yet, there are many receivers to get the messages.  This communication sounds more like the form most of us experience on a daily basis in schools, meetings, and other organizations.  Public Communication differs from the Small Group because the leader or sender shifts while in Public Communication, there is only one sender.  Mass Communication is communicated through a series of outside factors which may help accommodate interaction within the Small Group.  Yet, Mass Communication is mediated by technology and references such as television, radio, internet, etc.
 

The Importance of Studying Small Group Communication

All of us have an experience with Small Group Communication in our lifetimes.  Yet, it is a form of communication which can only be completely understood/discovered through study.  It is important to learn about the subject before entering the small group or experiencing it first-hand.  Entering a group may be difficult if one has not interacted with others on this type of basis.  It is important to learn about the other communications when studying because certain forms lead to Small Group Communication.  Interpersonal Communication leads directly to Small Group Communication.  After our self-concept is developed, then socialization follows the sequence.  Human beings need to interact socially in order to develop individually as well.  In general, people tend to be more tolerant for group decisions.  Individual decisions are regarded less because the majority usually holds more weight because many opinions are greater than one when it comes to consensus.  Isolation as an individual has more negative aspects than positive.  When someone isolates themselves away from interaction they will find it harder and harder to work with others each time.  It is important for one to see if he/she is able to fit into a set of behaviors of a group.  Studying will allow one top see how they can be compatible or cohesive within a group.  Using the skills of a Small Group will also allow one to increase their verbal interaction and their skill of communication in general.
 

Categories / Examples of Small Groups

To understand and separate small groups from one another, one must remember the types of small groups.  The primary small groups consists of mostly close friends and family.  The secondary group refers to anything outside the primary, like work friends and acquaintances.  Each Small Group holds formal or informal norms.  Formal norms require a specific set of rules for behavior.  In informal groups there are usually no set of official rules.  Groups experience tasks which they need to form as a group in order to complete the work/goal as a success.  Groups can also meet to be social and develop their interpersonal skills.  This is common for people that form groups because they have special shared interests.  Some examples of Small Groups fall under the titles:  the family, adolescents, workers, therapy, educational, etc.
 

Communication Within the Small Group

Communication within the group is vital.  If people do not get along it is obvious that the group will not succeed since everyone need to contribute the same amount of effort.  Communication within the group should be ongoing.  Thus, interaction is vital.  If a problem arises, there are ways to combat it and move on.  In communication, many things may happen simultaneously.  Change is always occurring so the group needs to plan for everything.  Communication is not always easy and at times gets lost.
 

Theoretical Approaches