group dynamics

[Adam Blatner]

Dear Colleagues,

    I've been contemplating group dynamics and warming up to an idea. Would any of you who were interested in thinking about what different size groups offer or can provide be willing to discuss the following contemplation with me, adding your own hunches and suggestions?



Different properties emerge as systems become more complex. Molecules are different from atoms, cells from molecules, etc. When one is alone, the variable is to be more or less awake and engaged, or curious. When two are present, a host of interactive possibilities, fighting/competing, supporting helping.

When three are present, the possibility of alliances or inclusion, jealousy. (This is the basis for the Oedipal complex, I think---that is, this is the dynamic that is universal. The sexualization of the Oedipal triangle occasionally occurs, and it generates certain complicating fixations. But I don't agree with Freudians who think that this sexualized triangle is almost ubiquitous.)

In the next section I could use your help. The following are only preliminary brainstormings:

 When four are present, teams emerge. (The seeds for these potentials may emerge at simpler levels, but at each level, it is almost difficult for certain properties not to be operating.)

When five are present, leadership happens

When six are present, drama happens, or taking turns, focus on one, and the dynamic of shyness versus self-presentation, of taking a stand, taking a risk, standing up to be counted, and also in drama, one person becomes for a moment the spokesperson or mythic questor for all. 

When seven are present the potential of schism becomes more manifest, the subtle tension for unity, to avoid breaking into sub-groups, and to work with the subtle subgroupings that almost can't help occurring.

And so forth. I haven't figured out the others, and the above ideas are still nascent, tentative, and open to your suggestions.

Adam Blatner, M.D.
(please reply to adam at blatner.com)
website: www.blatner.com/adam/   
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