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Communication and Group Culture 161

energy is being directed to the group’s task. Instead, much of it goes to protecting
yourself from psychological attack. You can’t do your best work that way, so
ultimately the group’s work suffers.
Gibb described six dimensions of group climate, which we summarize in
Table 6.3. Please note that defensiveness and supportiveness are conveyed as much—
or more—through nonverbal messages as through verbal ones, particularly tone of
voice. When you read the defensive statements we provide as examples, imagine they
are being said in a snotty or sarcastic tone of voice.

TABLE 6.3
Supportive Communication Defensive Communication
Supportive
Description: Tries to understand other Evaluation: Judges and criticizes; and defensive
points of view; takes responsibility for blames other people. communication
one’s own opinions and beliefs.
“I’ve noticed that, for the last few “What’s the MATTER with you people? Is
meetings, we’ve started 15 minutes there some REASON why we can’t
after the announced starting time.” get started on time?
Problem orientation: Tries to solve the Control: Tries to be in charge;
problem; enlists others’ help; invites dominates; insists on having one’s
others’ ideas. own way.
“What ideas do you have for addressing “Here’s what I’ve decided we’re going
our problem?” to do.”
Spontaneity: Open, honest, genuine Strategy: Manipulative communication
communication. that tries to steer the group in a
particular direction.
“I like that idea, but one problem I see “Don’t you think it would be better
with it is . . .” if . . .?”
Empathy: Demonstrates caring and Neutrality: Demonstrates lack of
understanding; shows members they understanding and lack of concern;
are valued. indifference.
“Congratulations! That’s a great job, but “You’re leaving? Can I have your office?”
we’re really going to miss you.”
Equality: Minimizes status differences Superiority: Makes status differences
and power distance; encourages clear; maximizes power distance;
members to contribute equally. pulls rank.
“Nice to meet you, Suzie. Go ahead and “Nice to meet you, Suzie. I’m
call me Gloria, not Dr. Galanes.” Dr. Galanes.”
Provisionalism: Expresses opinions Certainty: Expresses opinions
tentatively; open to others’ ideas and dogmatically and with no room for
opinions. others’ opinions; know-it-all attitude.
“Right now I’m leaning toward Option A, “Option A is the ONLY thing that will
but I’d like to know what you all think.” work!”

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