Social Groups in Action and Interaction : 2nd Edition

This textbook reviews and analyzes the human group as it operates to create both social good and, potentially, social harm. It uniquely blends social psychological research on intra-group behavior with research on inter-group behavior to give a more rounded perspective on the dynamics of social groups. In addition, topics that are not unique to either of these two approaches, and yet which are important aspects of group relations, such as culture, are also covered in depth. As such, this thoroughly revised 2nd Edition provides the most wide-ranging and contemporary resource for courses on group dynamics and behavior.

Social Groups in Action and Interaction reviews and analyzes the human group as it operates to create both social good and, potentially, social harm. It summarizes current knowledge and contemporary research, with real-world examples in succinct yet engaging chapters, to help students understand and predict group behavior. Unlike other texts, the book considers a wide range of topics—such as conformity, leadership, task performance, social identity, prejudice, and discrimination—from both an intragroup and an intergroup perspective. By looking at behavior both within and between groups, it bridges the gap between these interconnected approaches.

The second edition is thoroughly updated to include new discussion of the biology and neuroscience of group formation, recent developments in social identity theory, and recent advances in the study of social networks. It also includes questions for review and discussion in the classroom.

It provides the most comprehensive and essential resource for courses on group dynamics and behavior.