A Structural Analysis of Small Groups

This text is concerned with the emergent properties of groups as systems and where those properties arise from, but where such properties of groups are equivalent neither to those of individuals nor their interactions. First an examination of group theory is presented. Particular emphasis is placed upon processes of group integration, identity and leadership, using the theories of Freud, Bion, Winnicott, and Lacan. Methodological problems of group research are examined, including problems of definition and measurement, eg transindividual processes are defined, described and appropriate measurement of methods are discussed. using the theories of Freud, Winnicot, and Lacan. Finally within a framework of systems, psychoanalytic and social psychological theories, five small groups are analyzed to determine their structural and dynamic properties. The book aims to extend and develop ideas on group dynamics within the psychoanalytic group psychology tradition. In so doing, the author emphasizes the role of unconscious processes in the nature of collective life. In addition to the more traditional analytic ideas about groups the book draws on the work of Lacan. It should be of interest to social psychologists, sociologists, organizational behaviour specialists.