Social Groups in Action and Interaction

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.

Charles Stangor is Professor of Psychology at the University of Maryland, College Park. His principal research interests concern the development of stereotypes and prejudice, and their influences upon individuals who are potential victims of discrimination. He has published seven books and over 70 research articles and book chapters, and has served as an associate editor of the European Journal of Social Psychology. Dr. Stangor is the recipient of research grants from the National Institute of Mental Health and from the National Science Foundation. He is a charter fellow of the American Psychological Society, and has served as Executive Officer for the Society for Experimental Social Psychology.

Defining the Social Group. Studying Groups Scientifically. Groups and Their Functions. Social Influence. Social Categorization. Group Development and Structure. Power and Leadership. Group Decision Making. Group Performance and Productivity. Effective Working Groups. Cultures, Social Change, and Crowds. Cooperation and Conflict Within Groups. Cooperation and Conflict Between Groups.