Monday, February 7, 2011
Week 3, Question 2
Norms in a group have many different functions. “Norms influence our behaviors during the group process. They reduce ambiguity, help us to feel part of the group, and develop our overall sense of “groupness.” (Harris & Sherblom) I think that group norms help some groups to function properly. I feel that people work together better if they have a set of guidelines to follow. I am not saying that once these norms are set they are set in stone and people have to follow them forever. I do think that it is ok for people to step outside of the norms if it is for the better. For example In middle school I was best friends with two girls. The three of us could not be separated. The two other girls had stronger personalities then I did at the time and they expected me to be the quiet one who would follow along with whatever they wanted me to do. Unfortunately I did follow along with that for a while until one day I was tired of it and I stood up for myself. I was tired of being told what to do and I told them I wasn’t going to be their puppet anymore. I was very proud I did that. Even though it disrupted the group norm I made a positive change for myself and also changed the group norm, which benefited everyone.
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Commgirl141 had a really good response to the second question of the week, dealing with the functions of norms in group settings. I agree with a lot of what she said specifically the idea that people work better together if they have guidelines to follow. I know that when I am in a group setting and I have certain tasks assigned for me or that I assign for myself I am able to be that much more successful. I also know what you mean when you talk about speaking up for yourself and going away from that norm of doing what people expect, it is a great feeling to stand up for yourself especially when you know it will not only benefit you but the people around you.
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