What Do You Know About Group Communication?

The word "credo" in Latin translates to "I believe." This is because "credo" is derived from the Latin verb "credere," which means "to believe" or "to trust." Therefore, the correct answer is "I believe."

A family is considered a primary group because it is a small, intimate, and close-knit social group. Primary groups are characterized by face-to-face interactions, emotional connections, and long-term relationships. Families typically fulfill these criteria as they involve strong emotional bonds, regular face-to-face interactions, and a sense of belonging and support. Therefore, a family is an example of a primary group rather than a social group, public group, or service group.

A virtual group is a group that relies on technology to communicate. This means that the members of the group use tools such as email, video conferencing, or online collaboration platforms to interact with each other. Unlike traditional face-to-face groups, virtual groups do not meet in person and instead utilize technology to communicate and collaborate. This reliance on technology sets virtual groups apart from other types of groups, as it is a defining characteristic of their communication process.

The given question asks for the term that describes statements explaining or predicting how people communicate. The term that best fits this description is "theories," as theories are systematic explanations or predictions about a particular phenomenon, in this case, communication. Strategies, skills, resources, and rules are all related to communication but do not specifically refer to statements explaining or predicting how people communicate. Therefore, "theories" is the correct answer.

The ideal group size for a problem-solving discussion is 5-7 people. This size allows for a diverse range of perspectives and ideas while still maintaining a manageable and efficient discussion. With fewer than 5 people, there may be a lack of diverse viewpoints, limiting the potential solutions. On the other hand, with more than 7 people, it can become challenging to manage and facilitate the discussion effectively, leading to potential inefficiencies and difficulties in reaching a consensus. Therefore, 5-7 people strikes a balance between having enough input and maintaining a productive group dynamic.

Grace is giving special attention to the channels of communication when she prepares for the important group meeting. Channels refer to the medium through which the message is transmitted, such as verbal or non-verbal cues. By making sure her business suit is pressed, her hair is well-groomed, her perfume is pleasant but subtle, and by taking a breath mint, Grace is focusing on the non-verbal channels of communication to ensure that her appearance and body language convey a professional and confident image during the meeting.

The correct answer is a clear goal. According to the textbook, having a clear goal is the most important factor that separates successful groups from unsuccessful ones. This means that when a group has a clear and well-defined objective, it becomes easier for the members to align their efforts and work towards achieving that goal. A clear goal provides direction, focus, and purpose to the group, which increases their chances of success. Without a clear goal, the group may lack direction and may struggle to work cohesively towards a common objective.

The given scenario describes a college appointing a moderator and holding an open discussion for students to ask questions and express their concerns about a proposed increase in tuition. This setting, where individuals come together to discuss and exchange ideas, is an example of a forum. In a forum, participants have the opportunity to engage in open dialogue and share their thoughts and opinions on a particular topic. This allows for a democratic and inclusive approach to decision-making.

The correct answer is jury members deliberating a court case. Group communication, as defined in the textbook, refers to the interaction and exchange of information among three or more individuals who share a common goal or purpose. In this situation, the jury members are engaged in a formal discussion and decision-making process regarding a court case, which aligns with the definition of group communication. The other options, such as people talking in an elevator, discussing the weather at an airport, fans cheering at a baseball game, and a congregation listening to a sermon, do not involve the same level of formal interaction and decision-making as a group communication process.

In a group with 7 members, each member can interact with the other 6 members. Therefore, the total number of potential interactions can be calculated by finding the number of ways to choose 2 members from a group of 7, which is given by the formula 7C2 = 7! / (2! * (7-2)!) = 7! / (2! * 5!) = (7 * 6) / (2 * 1) = 21. However, since each interaction can occur in two different directions (e.g. A interacting with B and B interacting with A), we need to multiply this result by 2, giving us a total of 21 * 2 = 42 interactions.

This example best illustrates the systems theory principle that "systems try to maintain balance in their environment" because it shows that when work becomes too intense, members take time off to "play" in order to restore balance and relieve stress. This action of taking time off is a mechanism used by the system to maintain equilibrium and prevent burnout.

A local Alcoholics Anonymous chapter is an example of a self-help group because it provides support and assistance to individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Self-help groups are typically formed by people with similar challenges or goals, who come together to share their experiences, provide mutual support, and help each other overcome their difficulties. In the case of Alcoholics Anonymous, members gather to share their stories, offer guidance, and provide a supportive environment for individuals seeking recovery from alcoholism.

One of the disadvantages of working in groups is that it requires significant time, energy, and resources. This means that individuals need to invest a considerable amount of their resources in terms of time and effort to collaborate effectively within a group. This can be a challenge for individuals who have limited availability or other commitments that may hinder their ability to contribute fully to the group. Additionally, the need for resources such as meeting spaces, technology, and materials can also pose a financial burden.

A stamp collecting club can be considered a social group because it brings together individuals who share a common interest in stamp collecting. These individuals come together to socialize, exchange ideas, and engage in activities related to their shared interest. The club provides a platform for members to connect with like-minded individuals, build relationships, and foster a sense of community. It offers opportunities for social interaction, support, and camaraderie among its members, making it a social group.

The National Communication Association's Credo for Ethical Communication includes principles such as advocating truthfulness, accuracy, honesty, and reason as essential to communication integrity, striving to understand and respect other communicators before evaluating and responding to their messages, being committed to the courageous expression of personal conviction in pursuit of fairness and justice, and promoting a communication climate of caring and mutual understanding. However, it does not endorse freedom of speech only when the truth does not cause detrimental results or harm others.

The dialectic approach recommends a "both/and" approach when seeking to resolve group tensions. This means that instead of choosing between two opposing options, the approach suggests finding a way to incorporate and address the needs and perspectives of both sides. By recognizing and valuing the different viewpoints and finding a middle ground, the group can work towards a resolution that satisfies everyone involved.

The correct answer is "all of the above". According to the textbook, a group's context refers to the type and size of the group, the group's physical and psychological setting, the group's purpose, history, and status, as well as the characteristics of and relationships among group members. In other words, the context of a group encompasses all of these elements, which collectively contribute to shaping the dynamics and functioning of the group.

Feedback in a communication transaction refers to the response or reaction to a message. It is the information or input received from the receiver of the message, indicating their understanding, interpretation, or evaluation of the message. Feedback plays a crucial role in effective communication as it helps the sender to gauge the effectiveness of their message and make necessary adjustments if needed. It also allows for clarification, understanding, and further discussion between the sender and receiver, promoting better communication and mutual understanding.

The correct answer is balancing member similarities and differences. This means that in a homogeneous group, members have similar characteristics and perspectives, while in a heterogeneous group, members have diverse characteristics and perspectives. Balancing member similarities and differences refers to finding a middle ground where both the similarities and differences are acknowledged and respected, creating a harmonious and productive group dynamic. This involves recognizing the value of both similarity and diversity in order to foster collaboration and innovation within the group.

A symposium is a gathering where experts or professionals present and discuss various topics related to a specific theme or subject. In this case, the police officers are presenting speeches on different aspects of community safety, indicating that they are participating in a symposium. This term accurately describes the scenario of a group of police officers giving short, uninterrupted speeches on various topics.

The other pairs of proverbs in the options all highlight contradictory ideas or tensions. "Opposites attract" and "Birds of a feather flock together" suggest different ideas about relationships. "Two's company, three's a crowd" and "The more the merrier" present conflicting perspectives on group dynamics. "Look before you leap" and "He who hesitates is lost" offer contrasting advice on decision-making. "To know him is to love him" and "Familiarity breeds contempt" express opposing views on the effects of familiarity. However, "Waste not, want not" and "Music makes the world go 'round" do not appear to contradict each other in terms of their meanings or implications.

Guests who appear on talk shows and interact with other guests for the benefit of an audience are participating in a panel discussion. A panel discussion is a conversation among multiple participants who share their perspectives on a specific topic. In this scenario, the guests on the talk show are engaging in a discussion with each other, providing their insights and opinions to the audience. This format allows for a diverse range of viewpoints and encourages interactive dialogue among the guests.

In group dialectic terms, effective groups balance structure and spontaneity. This means that while having a certain level of structure and organization is important for a group to function effectively, it is also necessary to allow for spontaneity and flexibility. This allows for creativity, innovation, and adaptability within the group, fostering a positive and dynamic group dynamic. By striking a balance between structure and spontaneity, groups can effectively achieve their goals while also allowing for individual expression and engagement.

The correct answer is d. governance group. A college's Board of Trustees is responsible for making public policy decisions and governing the college. They have the authority to set policies, make strategic decisions, and oversee the overall functioning of the college. Therefore, they can be classified as a governance group.

In dialectic terms, effective groups balance conflict with cohesion. Cohesion refers to the level of unity and togetherness within a group. It involves members feeling connected, committed, and supportive of each other. Conflict, on the other hand, refers to disagreements or differences of opinion within a group. Effective groups strike a balance between allowing for healthy conflict and maintaining a sense of cohesion. This means that while conflicts may arise and be addressed, the group still remains united and focused on their common goals.

Synergy refers to the cooperative interaction of multiple factors that results in a combined effect greater than the sum of their individual parts. In other words, when different elements work together harmoniously, they can achieve more than what they could have achieved individually. This concept is commonly used in various fields, such as business, teamwork, and problem-solving, to emphasize the importance of collaboration and the potential for enhanced outcomes when working together.

The open system ↔ closed system group dialectic can be described as balancing external support and recognition with internal group solidarity and rewards. This means that the group needs to find a balance between seeking external support and recognition from outside sources, while also maintaining internal cohesion and unity through rewards and solidarity within the group. This balance ensures that the group remains connected to external resources and opportunities, while also fostering a sense of belonging and motivation within the group itself.

The engaged ↔ disengaged group dialectic refers to the tension between actively participating and contributing to a group's tasks and goals (engaged) versus taking breaks and allowing for rest and renewal (disengaged). This dialectic recognizes the importance of balancing member energy and labor with the group's need for rest and renewal. It emphasizes the need for members to put in effort and work hard, but also acknowledges the necessity of taking breaks and recharging in order to maintain productivity and well-being.

The group having the freedom to make decisions and implement them demonstrates the characteristic of autonomy in an empowered group. This means that the group is not restricted or controlled by external factors or individuals, and it has the authority and independence to make choices and take action based on its own judgment and goals. This autonomy allows the group members to feel empowered and responsible for their decisions and actions, leading to a sense of ownership and motivation within the group.

In dialectic terms, effective groups balance task dimensions with social dimensions. This means that in order for a group to be successful, it must not only focus on the tasks at hand but also on the social dynamics within the group. Social dimensions refer to the relationships, interactions, and communication among group members. By considering and addressing the social aspects of the group, such as building trust, promoting open communication, and fostering a positive group climate, the group can enhance its effectiveness and cohesion.