GROUP PSYCHOLOGY
Man is a social animal. In fact, man has a group instinct (gregariousness). He lives in groups. He fulfills his needs and aspirations only by living in a group.
In psychology, not only is individual behavior studied, but group behavior is also studied, which is called group psychology. Man has to interact with people to pursue his interests. People who come into contact with him, sharing similar interests, gradually form a group.
As a member of a group, a person must adapt their behavior to align with the group’s purpose and nature. That is, the individual must behave in accordance with the group’s objectives. Therefore, we can say that groups are formed through mutual social relationships.
The needs or objectives of the group members are the same. The members of the group work together to achieve their objectives.
Features of the group:
1. The members of the group share the same objectives.
2. There is a sense of mutual cooperation among the members.
3. There is mutual awareness of each other.
4. There is a sense of unity among the members.
5. There is faith in the group’s rules and ideals.
6. There is a sense of collective power.
7. There is dependence on the leader for decision-making and debates.
Types of Groups:
1. Natural Group: Groups formed naturally, without deliberate intention.
2. Formed Group: Groups created intentionally for a specific purpose.
Natural Groups:
1. Family: A group of relatives living together.
2. Society: A large group of people sharing a common culture.
3. State: A group of people governed by a single government.
4. Nation: A large group of people sharing a common identity.
Formed Groups:
1. School: An institution for education.
2. Club: A group of people with shared interests.
3. Political Parties: Groups advocating for specific policies.
4. Entertainment Group: A group providing entertainment.
School as a Group:
1. Permanence: Schools are permanent institutions, providing ongoing education.
2. Consciousness about the group: There is awareness of duties within the group.
3. Contact with other groups: The school has contact, cooperation, and competition with other schools.
4. The group has rules and traditions.
5. There is a division of duties.
Group Dynamics
The members of the group interact with each other, resulting in changes to the behavior of the group members. The changes that take place within the group over time are called group dynamics. Group dynamics involves studying the behavior of people within a group in various internal and external situations.
The following studies are conducted under group dynamics:
1. Why and how is a group formed?
2. What is the function of the individual as a member of a group?
3. Which forces control group behavior, and how can the effectiveness of the group be increased?
As a social animal, man has three types of interactions:
1. Between person and person
2. Between the individual and the group
3. Within groups and between groups
Qualities of Good Leadership:
1. Attractive Personality: A leader’s charm and charisma.
2. Adaptability: Ability to adjust to new situations.
3. Sociability: Ability to interact and connect with others.
4. Sharp Intellect: High mental acuity and problem-solving skills.
5. Decision-making Ability: Capacity to make informed, timely decisions.
6. Communication Skills: Effective verbal and non-verbal communication.
7. Confidence: Faith in one’s abilities and decisions.
8. Accountability: Taking responsibility for one’s actions.
9. Organizational Capacity: Ability to plan, coordinate, and execute tasks.
10. Sacrifice: Willingness to put the group’s needs before one’s own.
Educational Importance of Group Psychology:
The educational importance of group psychology lies in the following:
1. Sociality: Developing social skills and relationships.
2. Cooperation: Fostering teamwork and collaboration.
3. Development of Dedication and Patriotism: Encouraging loyalty and commitment.
4. Imagination and Logic: Cultivating creative and critical thinking.
5. Decision-making Skills: Teaching informed decision-making.
6. Healthy Competition: Promoting positive rivalry and achievement.
Explore More:-
Jean Piaget Classified Cognitive Development Theory – Four Stages
The Psychology of Learning: 5 Key Factors Influncing Learning
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