The transforming nature of metaphors in group development: a study in group theory
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Authors
Srivastva, Suresh
Barrett, Frank J.
Subjects
Advisors
Date of Issue
1988
Date
Publisher
Tavistock Institute of Human Relations
Language
Abstract
It is proposed in this paper that members' creation of metaphors facilitates further expression and
development of the group. Few methodologies for group inquiry help us in understanding the tacit
awareness (Polanyi, 1959) of members as the group is in the process of interacting. One way of disĀ
covering members' awareness is by paying attention to their language, specifically their creation
of metaphors. We would like to put forth propositions concerning metaphor and group process that
suggest how: (I ) paying attenĀtion to metaphors are indicators of a group's phase of development
and can lead to a discovery of the tacit awareness of group members; (2/ metaphor facilitates
learning and overcomes resistance to otherwise difficult subjects;
(3) metaphor is generative and facilitates contact between group members and in this way supports
the growth and development of the group; and (4) as individuals articulate metaphors to express
their feelings and perceptions while attempting to understand their experience in the group, they
are constructing their own social reality. Therefore, to look at the group's metaphor is to see
the group development, to identify the social construction of reality in its nascent stages. To
support these propositions, we will cite data from various laboratory group experiences.
Type
Article
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Graduate School of Business and Public Policy (GSBPP)
Organization
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
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NPS Report Number
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Format
34 p.
Citation
S. Srivastva, F.J. Barrett, "The transforming nature of metaphors in group development: a study in group theory," Human Relations, v. 47, no.1 (1988), pp. 31-64.
Distribution Statement
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.