Group Theory and Group Skills

Group theory cannot be understood apart from the concept of dynamics, i.e., that groups are living things, functioning as a consequence of communication and leadership (Johnson & Johnson, 2000, p. 38), and functioning in a continual state of change. Indeed, changing patterns of communication and leadership are the principal markers of group structure. The quality and depth of social interaction in a group is fundamental to understanding how it behaves.

Although this formulation may seem neutral, Johnson and Johnson cite research showing that social interaction can function for good or ill, a fact that reaches meaning when one considers that groups may be of any size, from a small committee of two to an entire nation. Indeed, as they explain, group dynamics as a discipline emerged in the 20th century partly in response to the phenomenon of fascism, which demonstrated the power of leadership to galvanize a group (such as a national society) for thought and action.