Constructive and Destructive Group Behaviors

One suggested exercise: Have each student in a group share with their group one constructive and one destructive behavior they have found in themselves. It can be used at group formation or mid-project as a reflection.

Adapted from Brunt (1993). Facilitation Skills for Quality Improvement. Quality Enhancement Strategies. Madison, WI

Constructive Group Behaviors

• Cooperating: Is interested in the views and perspectives of the other group members and is willing to adapt for the good of the group.
• Clarifying: Makes issues clear for the group by listening, summarizing, and focusing discussions.
• Inspiring: Enlivens the group and encourages participation and progress.
• Harmonizing: Encourages group cohesion and collaboration. For example, uses humor as a relief after a challenging discussion.
• Risk-Taking: Is willing to risk possible personal loss or embarrassment for the group or project's success.
• Process Checking: Questions the group on process issues such as agenda, time frames, discussion topics, decision methods, use of information, etc.

Destructive Group Behaviors

• Dominating: Takes much of meeting time expressing self-views and opinions. Tries to take control by use of power, time, etc.
• Rushing: Encourages the group to move on before the task is complete. Gets "tired" of listening to others and working as a group.
• Withdrawing: Removes self from discussions or decision-making. Refuses to participate.
• Discounting: Disregards or minimizes group or individual ideas or suggestions. Severe discounting behavior includes insults, often in the form of jokes. 
• Digressing: Rambles, tells stories, and takes the group away from the primary purpose.
• Blocking: Impedes group progress by obstructing all ideas and suggestions. "That will never work because…"