In Your Own Words Based On The Required Reading And A Schola
In Your Own Words Based On The Required Reading And A Scholarly Sour
In your own words, based on the required reading and a scholarly source that you select, define the concept of secondary small group and explain how this concept differs from small group and primary group. Then, think of any secondary small group (or a group with both primary and secondary characteristics) to which you have belonged in the past or to which you belong now. Briefly describe this group to the class. Then explain the small group throughput processes of your chosen group. If communication is the heart of this transformational process, how would you describe the quality of communication in your chosen group, and what would you like to see improve?
Paper For Above instruction
A secondary small group is a type of social group characterized by its functional and task-oriented nature, often composed of individuals who come together for a specific purpose, typically lacking the deep personal bonds found in primary groups. Unlike primary groups, which are marked by emotional intimacy and longstanding relationships, secondary groups are more impersonal, goal-driven, and often temporary. According to Littlejohn and Foss (2020), secondary groups tend to focus on specific objectives such as completing work tasks, pursuing shared interests, or achieving organizational goals, with participation often based on individual roles rather than personal connection.
A primary group, on the other hand, is fundamentally defined by its emotional closeness and enduring personal relationships, such as family or close friends. These relationships are characterized by a high degree of intimacy and ongoing emotional support, often forming the foundational network for individuals' social lives. In contrast, a small group refers broadly to any collection of three or more individuals who interact regularly and share a common purpose, which can include both primary and secondary groups depending on the nature of their bonds.
An example of a secondary small group I have belonged to is a project team at my workplace. This team was assembled to address a specific business challenge and was composed of colleagues from different departments. The members interacted regularly to divide tasks, share information, and collaborate to meet project deadlines. Although there was camaraderie, the relationships remained primarily professional, and interactions were centered around work objectives rather than personal matters. This group exemplifies a secondary small group with defined goals, structured interactions, and limited emotional intimacy.
The throughput processes within this team involved communication, coordination, and feedback mechanisms essential for task completion. Communication served as the core transformational process, facilitating information sharing, problem-solving, and decision-making. The quality of communication in this group was generally effective, characterized by clarity, professionalism, and responsiveness. Members actively listened to each other and provided timely feedback, which contributed to the successful progression of the project.
However, there is always room for improvement. In this group, enhanced openness and the encouragement of more personal interactions could strengthen team cohesion and trust. Developing a deeper understanding of each other's perspectives and building stronger interpersonal relationships could foster a more collaborative and supportive environment, ultimately improving overall productivity and morale. Effective communication rooted in genuine rapport can transform a functional team into a highly cohesive and motivated unit.
In conclusion, understanding the differences between primary, secondary, and small groups provides insight into how social bonds and functional goals influence group dynamics. Recognizing the role of communication in these groups highlights its importance in fostering effective collaboration and achieving collective objectives. As demonstrated in my workplace group, refining communication processes and expanding relational depth can significantly enhance group performance and well-being.
References
Littlejohn, S. W., & Foss, K. A. (2020). Theories of Human Communication (12th ed.). Waveland Press.