Group dynamics

The individual, interpersonal social responses peculiar to individuals functioning in small groups, usually defined as 10 people or fewer. Group dynamics, or group psychology, which differ dramatically from individual or mob psychology, were first studied as a separate psychological concept in the 1920s by social psychologists such as Kurt Lewin (1890–1947), who focused on such phenomena as group structure, group atmosphere and goals, and group leadership characteristics (democratic, autocratic and so on). Later studies of group social processes such as group decision making and development of strategies for leading and persuading groups provided essential pedagogical materials for teachers of all age groups.