Tubbs' Theory of Small Group Communication
Tubbs' Theory of Small Group Communication provides a framework for understanding how individuals interact within small groups, typically consisting of three to fifteen members. Developed by Stewart L. Tubbs in the 1970s, the theory adopts a systems approach, emphasizing the dynamics within the group and considering external influences. It defines four key phases of group communication: orientation, conflict, consensus, and closure.
During the orientation phase, group members begin to familiarize themselves with one another, which can be marked by varying levels of participation. The conflict phase encourages the expression and evaluation of individual ideas, often resembling a brainstorming session where members propose solutions and assess their merits. This is followed by the consensus phase, where the group agrees on potential actions to pursue, establishing ground rules for decision-making. Finally, the closure phase signifies the resolution of the group's decisions and the initiation of work towards their objectives.
Notably, Tubbs highlighted the constructive role of conflict in group decision-making, viewing it as a beneficial process rather than an obstacle. His theory underscores the interconnected nature of group interactions, illustrating how changes in one area can affect the entire group's dynamics. This comprehensive understanding of small group communication can be valuable for various settings, including business environments and collaborative projects.
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Tubbs' Theory of Small Group Communication
Tubbs's Theory of Small Group Communication is a method of studying the interaction between people in small groups over time. The theory uses a systems approach, a way of thinking that considers team dynamics within the group and the effects of outside influences on the group. Tubbs's theory consists of four parts: orientation, conflict, consensus, and closure. It was first developed in the 1970s by Stewart L. Tubbs (1943-2023), former dean of the College of Business at Eastern Michigan University and author of more than thirty books concerning business and communications.
Overview
According to Human Communication: Principles and Contexts, people spend about 75 percent of each day engaged in some form of communication. When people get together in groups, this communication has been observed to follow patterns by behavioral researchers. Several theories have been developed to determine the phases such communication goes through as a group interacts. The Tubbs's theory is one attempt to identify these stages as they apply to small groups. In the eleventh edition of A Systems Approach to Small Group Interaction, first published in 1978, Tubbs defines a small group as consisting of three to fifteen people.
Tubbs breaks down communication within a small group, or team, into four phases. The first of these phases is orientation. In this stage, the members of the group begin to become familiar with each other. Since they may not have known each other beforehand, some may be reluctant to speak, while others may be overly self-conscious. In time, the group members start to talk about the common problem or issue they are facing and discuss the positives and negatives in solving the problem. An example of this in a business setting may be an initial meeting where a team reviews a new project and discusses a client's expectations.
The next stage is conflict. Conflict, in this case, refers to the expression of individual ideas and the evaluation of those ideas by the group. This is sometimes called a brainstorming session, in which group members come up with possible solutions to a problem, and the other members weigh the pros and cons of those solutions. Stronger personalities may emerge during this stage and occasionally subgroups, or cliques, may develop.
The next phase is called consensus. After evaluating the individual ideas, the group agrees on a course of action. This does not necessarily mean it has reached a final decision. At this stage, the group has decided on the ideas it wishes to pursue and the ground rules it will follow to achieve its goals. If disagreements still persist from the conflict phase, they may be resolved through compromise.
The final stage is closure. This phase results in the ultimate resolution of the group decision and the beginning of work on solving the problem. At this point, the team members should have a well-defined vision of their common goals and a clear idea of their individual role in the process.
Tubbs's Theory of Small Group Communication emphasizes the positive power of group conflict. Rather than a negative experience to be avoided, Tubb viewed conflict in group decision making as a benefit for effective outcomes. Additionally, as a systems approach, this theory reccognizes the systemic impact of changes in one aspect of the group and the group's dependence on norm-based interactions.
Bibliography
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