Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Introduction to the study of small groups. The small groups in everyone's life -- The small group as a system -- The foundations of communicating in groups. Human communication processes in small groups -- Verbal and nonverbal signals in small group communication -- The effects of culture on small group communication -- Developing the small group. The members -- From individuals to group: norms and roles -- From individuals to group: fantasy and cohesiveness -- Perspectives on leadership in small groups -- Serving as designated leader -- Effective problem solving in the small group. Problem-solving discussion -- Decision making in small groups -- Managing conflict in the small group -- Group discussion and observation techniques. Special discussion techniques and methods -- Observing group discussions -- Appendix A. Making public presentations of the group's output -- Appendix B. Informational resources for the group.