Advantages And Disadvantages Of Group Behaviour

Introduction

Organisational Behaviour "frets about the study of behaviours portrayed within an organisational setting, giving understanding, control and prediction of human behaviour". (Mullins & Christy, 2016). Consequently, an organisation is "human strategies designed specifically to achieve certain objectives" (Argyris, 1957). So, why do people act differently in a group than by themselves? Examining some contemporary and modern day theories, a better understanding is hope for by the end of this discussion.
Nature of groups and group behaviour

A group, is "any number of people interacting with one another and psychologically aware of each other". (Mullins & Christy, 2016). But before reaching this point, they must experience stages of

Rules, as well as codes of conduct enforced creating the first stage of group development.
Storming: -
In this stage, individual ideas and behaviours create animosity and division among group members, often leading to conflicts and hostility. Although being the most difficult stage in group development, once conquered, discussions take place to change policies and procedures originally agreed to among group members.
Norming: -
At this stage, group members gain a better understanding of each other. Policies and procedures practiced, creating better cooperation and harmony with each other.
Performing: -
Cohesiveness among group members are evident, the group moves as a unit, accomplishing task presented to them. The group concentrates on its purpose and effective performance becomes first priority.
Adjourning: -
To some groups, this may be the most emotional stage. At this point the group either dissolves or a member leaves the organisation. A sense of loss felt, since real bonds between members take shape. Other groups may feel a sense of relief, no longer dealing with their group

Social Facilitation
(Zajonc, 1965), demonstrated two type of social facilitation, Audience effects: this brought to light the effects an audience had on some of the subjects ' performance, whereas, Co-action effects, displayed an improvement in the presence of each other, which almost exhibited competition like behaviours. (Zajonc, 1965) also explained the vast increase in improvements after introducing a panel.
Moreover, (Ferris, et al., 1978), highlighted (Cottrell, 1978) work, where he further enhanced the theory giving notion to audience and co-action effects. (Cottrell, 1978) believed that an audience alone did not necessarily give rise to social drive increase, but the company of specific others made the difference.
(Craighead & Nemeroff, 2004), gave a different view on social facilitation. They believed when in the view of others, socially accepted standard behaviour came forth, often leading to conformity.
Careful consideration to avoid social loafing is necessary. Some examples of organisations gaining value from groups would be, Marriott International Inc., Amazon and Apple.
But, social facilitation is just one problem affecting groups and performance in the organisation. Another problem is