COMM140 - Small group communication (4 phases of group development: Aubrey Fisher)

Who identified these four phases of group development?

Aubrey Fisher

In which of the four phases the group members are most likely to argue, debate and clarify their opinions and feelings?

Conflict phase

In reality, do small groups follow these exact phases steps?

Not really, these phases appear to be much more complex, out of order and not as clear as Fisher's identified steps.

What are the four phases of group development according to Perspective 1 ?

Orientation Conflict Emergence Reinforcement

What is reinforced in the reinforcement phase and how?

Social dimension Through the expression of positive feelings about the group and its accomplishments, development of strong sense of group identity and belonging

What is constructed in the reinforcement phase?

implementation plan and timetable for the agreed-upon solution

What happens in the emergence phase?

members move from debate and conflict to a possible solution acceptable by all

What is the orientation phase being referred as and what does illustrates?

primary tension It illustrates uneasiness group members feel because of being unfamiliar with one another

What is the conflict phase being referred as and what does it illustrates?

secondary tension It illustrates tension caused by disagreement or criticism over one's ideas, evidences, or proposed solutions