ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses small-group communication and how our diverse approaches to it influence the overall effectiveness of the small-group process. Small-group communication involves a small number of people who share a common goal or objective and usually interact face-to-face. Another variable that affects group participation is the communication arrangement, the physical placement of the individuals within the group. During the orientation phase, or the beginning of a group discussion, members are chiefly concerned about establishing a comfortable social climate. As ideas begin to surface regarding the decision making, it is natural for disagreement and tension to surface as well. This stage is known as the conflict phase. As discussion continues, most groups grow anxious to reach a decision. This stage is called the emergence phase. The final phase of the decision-making process, consensus is achieved; this is called the reinforcement phase.
