Small Groups as Complex Systems: Formation, Coordination, Development, and Adaptation

by Holly Arrow, Joseph E. McGrath, Jennifer L.L. Berdahl

What are groups? How do they behave? Arrow, McGrath, and Berdahl answer these questions by developing a general theory of small groups as complex systems. Basing their theory on concepts distilled from general systems theory, dynamical systems theory, and complexity and chaos theory, they explore groups as adaptive, dynamic systems that are driven by interactions among group members as well as between the group and its embedding contexts. In addition, they consider not only the group′s members and their distribution of attributes, but also the group′s tasks and technology in order to understand how those members, tasks, and tools are intertwined, coordinated, and adjusted. Throughout the book, the authors focus our attention on relationships among people, tools, and tasks that are activated by a combination of individual and collective purposes and goals that change and evolve as the group interacts over time.

Genres: Management, Science

344 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2000

Reviews

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting discussion and theory development as it pertains to small groups and there development process from forming through ending. Highly recommended for anyone interested in small group research and theory development.

[إحسان · Rating 5 out of 5]

مبكي ومتشعب وغزير لكن ضروري للفهم الشامل للمجموعات وفرق العمل.