Abstract :
This paper presents a theoretical framework that
advances current understanding of motivational and affective
causes and consequences of small group processes and behaviors.
Theories on the approach and avoidance systems of
motivation state that these systems are active in the presence
of potential positive or negative outcomes, respectively. In
many instances, groups are associated with rewards and are
perceived to facilitate positive outcomes (“strength in numbers”),
and are a source of security and thought to reduce the
occurrence of negative outcomes (“safety in numbers”). Accordingly,
group membership and interaction should impact
activation of group members’ approach and avoidance motivation
systems. Thus, systematic group influences on mood,
information processing, perceptions, attention, and behavior
should be expected. The integration of approach and
avoidance theories with small group research can potentially
broaden our knowledge of the group experience, and lead to
a theoretical framework for investigations of goal-directed
behaviors in group settings.
