Page 171 - Effective group discussion theory and practice by Adams, Katherine H. Brilhart, John K. Galanes, Gloria J

154 Chapter 6

particularly critical in establishing that group’s norms. At that time, behaviors typical
of primary tension in the formation phase—speaking quietly, suppressing disagree-
ment, making tentative and ambiguous statements—can become norms if not chal-
lenged. Norms usually evolve over time and exist below the level of conscious
awareness of most members. Often, a norm is brought to a group’s awareness only
after a member violates it, a new member questions it, or an observer points it out.
Conformity The reinforcement of group norms depends on conformity, or members going
57
Following group along with emerging norms over time. Conformity to norms helps a group function
norms and not as a whole and confirms members’ acceptance of and loyalty to the group. How
deviating from them. quickly do group members conform to norms? Five conditions seem to influence
58
conformity to group norms. First are individual characteristics. For example, older
people are less likely to conform. Second, members follow well-articulated and well-
enforced norms more. Third, the more members who conform to the norm, the more
likely it is that others will follow. Fourth, highly cohesive groups tend to generate
more conformity to their norms. Finally, members who support the goals of their
group are more likely to follow that group’s norms.
General norms direct the behavior of the group as a whole. The medical group
discussed in our chapter opening developed a general norm related to rational deci-
sion making. Role-specific norms, those relevant to individual members, developed
for Julian and included his rephrasing and redefining of the others’ ideas. He also
developed the norm of talking more than the others. Examples of each type of norm
follow:

General Norms (Applicable to Role-Specific Norms (Applicable to
Every Member) Specific Members)

Members should sit in the same position The leader should prepare and
at each meeting. distribute an agenda in advance of
each meeting.
Members should address each other by The secretary should distribute minutes
first names. of the previous meeting at least three
days before the next meeting.
No one may smoke during meetings. Gulshan may play critical tester of all
ideas by asking for evidence.
Members may leave the meeting to get Terrell should tell a joke when the
something to drink but should return climate gets tense during an
to their seats promptly. argument.
Members should arrive on time for Julian should restate other members’
meetings. remarks in his own words.

If norms generally exist below the level of conscious awareness, how can group
members discover what their norms are? Norms can be inferred and confirmed by
observation. New members, especially, should be sensitive to the group’s norms so
that they do not inadvertently violate important ones. There are two types of

gal37018_ch06_135_168.indd 154 3/28/18 12:36 PM