Toward an Adequate Theory of Stress Resolution in Work Groups

Abstract

The theoreticalformulations of stress in small, face-to-faceproblem-solving or work groups that are available in the literature are characterized by conceptual problems which limit usefulness. In particular, the study of mechanisms which members use and the moves which the group as a whole makes to resolve a state of stress that is related to its functioning is precluded. This paper proposes a theoreticalformulation that is grounded in the work of W. R. Bion and that incorporates a concept of stress intended to permit analysis of group moves and individual mechanisms to resolve stress. Two extant theoreticalformulations of work group behavior that include a concept of stress related to group processes are reviewed in light of three metatheoretical criteria. These criteria are: (1) stress that is specified as a state of the group, (2) stress responses that are characterized by alloplastic adaptation (i.e., processes that modify circumstances or shape the environment), and (3) stress that is transactionally formulated (ie., the action of individual members is viewed as of and by the group in which the individual is integrally a part). Contributions of the proposed theoretical formulation for the study of group moves and individual mechanisms to resolve stress are discussed in terms of the three metatheoretical issues as well as the test-ability of the formulation.

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