Features of a Group, Types, Development Stages: UGC NET Notes

Groups are fundamental units of social organization that bring individuals together to achieve common goals, share resources, and interact with one another. Whether formal or informal, small or large, groups play a crucial role in various aspects of human life, including work, education, recreation, and socialization. Understanding the features and dynamics of groups is essential for effective collaboration, teamwork, and interpersonal communication.

Features of a group is a very widely asked topic in competitive exams like the UGC NET exam and is very important for the UGC-NET Commerce Examinations. This topic belongs to the human resource management ugc net section.

In this topic, the learners will be able to study in detail about the following:

• Meaning of group
• Features of a group
• Stages of group development

Meaning of Group

The term "group" refers to a collection of two or more individuals who come together and interact with one another, sharing a common purpose, identity, or interest. Groups can vary widely in size, structure, and purpose, ranging from small informal gatherings of friends to large formal organizations. In a group, members often develop a sense of belonging and mutual influence, contributing to the formation of group norms, roles, and dynamics. 

Characteristics Features of a Group

Here are some key characteristics or features of a group:

• Interaction: Members of a group engage in regular communication, collaboration, and social interaction with one another. This interaction can be verbal, nonverbal, or through other means such as written communication.
• Shared Goals or Purpose: Groups typically have a common objective, goal, or purpose that unites their members and guides their collective actions. This shared goal often provides the basis for the group's formation and activities.
• Identity and Cohesion: Groups develop a sense of identity and cohesion, with members perceiving themselves as part of a unified entity. This cohesion fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity among group members.
• Interdependence: Group members rely on one another to achieve their shared goals or objectives. Each member's actions and contributions affect the group as a whole, leading to a sense of interdependence and mutual reliance.
• Norms and Roles: Groups establish norms, or shared rules and expectations governing member behavior, as well as roles, which define the specific functions or responsibilities assigned to individual members within the group.
• Structure: Groups may have formal or informal structures that define the relationships, hierarchies, and decision-making processes within the group. Formal groups often have designated leaders or appointed roles, while informal groups may have more fluid or emergent structures.
• Size: Groups can vary widely in size, ranging from small, intimate gatherings to large, formal organizations. Group size can influence communication patterns, cohesion, and decision-making processes.
• Dynamic Nature: Groups are dynamic entities that evolve over time in response to changing circumstances, member dynamics, and external influences. They may undergo periods of growth, adaptation, conflict, and dissolution.
• Membership: Groups have defined membership criteria, with individuals joining or leaving the group based on factors such as shared interests, eligibility criteria, or formal requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, groups are dynamic social entities characterized by shared goals, mutual influence, and a sense of identity or belonging. Understanding the features and dynamics of groups is essential for promoting collaboration, teamwork, and effective interpersonal relationships in various contexts. By recognizing the unique characteristics of groups and addressing common challenges, individuals can harness the collective potential of groups to achieve shared objectives and enhance social cohesion.

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Features of a Group Previous Year Questions

1. Arrange the following characteristics of stages of group development in the increasing order:

1. Members beings to resolve differences and clarify the purpose of the role and the role of group members.
2. It includes recognition of participation and achievement.
3. Members are highly task-oriented and there is unity in group.
4. Conflicts starts arising due to differences of opinion among members.
5. members are moderately eager, have positive expectations, anxious about why they are there, and who other members.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

1. E,D,A,B,C
2. D,E,C,A,B
3. E,D,A,C,B
4. D,B,A,E,C

Ans. Option 3.