Results Introduction: Groups are a variety of individuals that collaborate collectively with one another. When we interact within a group, conflicts may quickly surface because processes, goals, and emotional feelings tend to differ between each person. Conflict “occurs when parties disagree over substantive issues or when emotional antagonisms create fiction between them” (p.220). It is important for groups to realize the conflicts that exist, comprehend them, and find methods in which they can be dealt with positively. Groups that cannot resolve the internal issues they confront, the overall goal or task may not be achieved effectively. Three weeks ago I was engaged in a group where the other members and I had to put forth a twenty-five minute presentation about a product of our choice. Throughout our process, tensions arose between multiple individuals. Essential time had been wasted, and success was only achievable if resolution was quickly found. Negotiation and communication found in the text, Organizational Behavior, exemplified approaches to implement that would eliminate the conflicts I shared with group members. Experience: I had eight days to come up with sufficient research about our topic, relate it to critical thinking, and create a visual aide that would be presented to the class. We had no sense of direction. No one accepted responsibility for a task. Verbal and written communication was minimal.
The group had divided into two cliques: one including two members that shared a class together, and the other two and myself that shared a different class together. Schedules did not coincide with one another’s, causing decision making and collaboration difficult. We shared ideas, roles, and set tasks that needed to be done through a networking web source. This however led to conflict as we continually argued through email as to which process approach should be utilized.
When the opposing subgroup had class, the subgroup I participated in, met on campus three days in a row. We put together an advertisement, and various statements that would depict concepts from the text. Between the first two days, we managed to only create a one page ad and some quotes. When it was shared online with the other members, they were quick to say that our work did not relate to the topic. We were behind. On the third day, three days before the assignment was due, the complete group was able to meet. Everything came together. We drew an outline on a white board, made bullet points, and created subgroups of research that needed to be done. We collectively agreed upon which chapters of the text would be used in our presentation. Tasks and personal assignments were negotiated, in which each individual agreed to accepting a particular responsibility. We communicated information efficiently, placing it on the power point where it would best be used. When it was time to engage the audience with our presentation, not only did we hit our allotted time limit, but we successfully produced an effective ad that also exemplified our knowledge of the key elements within the text. We achieved our goal.
Reflection: During the group’s process stage, I felt uneasy. With limited time and no cooperation, our outcome seemed grim. I spent a lot of my energy focused on accusing other individuals for our inadequacies. I too refused to accept responsibility for the project. Reflecting upon my feelings; anger, confusion, and stress seemed to be the motives behind my behaviors. I perceived the situation to be a negative, unhealthy experience. In return, I expressed my frustration through emails, creating tensions within the group.
I became disengaged from doing additional research, refusing to put forth suggestions that would enhance our collaboration. Why exert any effort when the group would not prioritize time to meet? With a lack of direction, I felt that my contributions would be turned away. What if I have