ABSTRACT
SMALL groups are collectives, and include elements of organizations such as unique rules, climates, norms, leaders, and patterns. Because groups are small collectives, interpersonal communication factors also come into play. Elements such as interpersonal conflict, dyadic communication, individual differences, and persuasion can also be included as part of the puzzle. Making decisions is a central activity for small groups regardless of their specific purposes. The functional approach to small group Communication is primarily concerned with decision making. Its focus is very narrow, on functional requisites for effective group decisions. In fact, the narrowness of its focus can be compared to examining only part of a picture, or examining something through a microscope or telescope.
