Contributions of Psychodynamic Theories to Understanding Small Groups

Abstract

Psychodynamic theories of groups operate on the fundamental assumption that (a) nonconscious emotional processes shape interpersonal behavior in groups; (b) the lack of awareness of these processes inhibits effective work in the group; and (c) bringing such processes to members’ awareness will help remove this inhibition. Psychodynamic theories can be classified into two types of approaches: psychoanalytic and humanistic. These perspectives further assume that social behavior has biological bases and that a group mind exists. The psychoanalytic approach is governed by a medical model and traces its early development to Freud. Humanistic approaches are governed by an education and the human development model and trace their roots to the early social psychological theories of Lewin. Psychodynamic perspectives have influenced the study of groups widely and are notable for their major contribution to theories of group development.