Group Dynamics The term group dynamics describes not only processes that take place in groups but also the "field of inquiry dedicated to advancing knowledge about the nature of groups" (Cartwritght & Zander, 1968, p.7).

Formal and Informal Groups A group is defined as two or more freely interacting individuals who share a common identity and purpose. They influence one another through social interaction.  There are two main types of groups.  These are the informal and formal group.  An informal group is a collection of people seeking friendship.  A formal group is a collection of people created to do something productive.  Both of these groups have the ability to establish group cohesiveness. Group cohesiveness is the tendency of group members to follow the group and resist outside influences.

Groupthink Groupthink is a strong concurrence-seeking tendency that interferes with effective group decision making.  At the core of the process is the tendency for group members to strive for solidarity and cohesiveness to such an extent that they carefully avoid any questions or topics that could lead to disputes.  If the members anticipate arguments over an issue, they never raise it.  If they will be unable  to answer a question,  they never ask it.  If they can find shortcuts and reach solutions, they take them.  Thus, as a result of irrational emphasis on maintaining unanimity and cohesiveness, the group's decisions are ill-considered, impractical, and unrealistic.   Groupthink is a prevalent problem among many groups.  Symptoms that a group may be experiencing groupthink include excessive optimism, assumption of inherent morality, suppression of disagreement, and an almost desperate search for agreement.  To prevent groupthink everyone should act as a critical evaluator.  The group may also wish to get a fresh perspective from an outside expert.  Also, try assigning the devil's advocate role to a member to stimulate new views.  Anticipating the side effects and consequences of decisions before they are made is another way to prevent groupthink.