Group Activity to an Outsider, Any Activity

Group Activity To an outsider, any activity might seem odd if the person observing did not understand the context of the action. Being outside the action can allow people to make observations about what they see and to analyze the behaviors of others. An example that readily comes to mind is a sporting event, such as a baseball game. Observers will note that there are two distinct sides, each faction intending to outscore the other.

The sides each are comprised of nine members who are playing on the field and both also usually have additional players for replacement in the case of injury. In addition, there are usually coaches or managers who organize the proceedings and tell the players what to do. Within a team, there is an interesting dynamic. Each person wishes to do well, to hit the ball, to catch it and to throw it well depending upon their position and whether their side is at bat or in the field.

More than a singular person's efforts, the teammates must be dependent upon each other. Even the greatest hitters such as Babe Ruth needed other players in order to win baseball games. It is simply not a game in which a single person can win when the opposition is a cohesive, functioning unit. Observers of the players would take careful observation of the way they interacted.

Are they angry and antagonistic with one another or do they work together as teams should? A team that does not play as one is far less likely to win the day than a team which is more functional. In a way, a baseball game is the perfect opportunity for researchers to observe and report on interpersonal dynamics. During a game, people are usually at their emotional limits. If the team is winning then most of the players are euphoric, upbeat, and happy.

On the other hand, if the team is losing badly, then the players are apt to be upset. Happy players will be more kindly to their teammates. They will be encouraging and give praise to the fellow baseball players, congratulating one another on a job well done. Losing teams will be more likely to negatively act with one another, to cast the blame on others rather than take any of the blame on the loss upon themselves.

Either glee or despair, the players will be at the apex of an emotion and in such times people are more apt to behave honestly, without concern for the social pressures put upon them by their peers. Those.