A Structural Analysis of Small Groups

Originally published in 1992, A Structural Analysis of Small Groups is concerned with the emergent properties of groups as systems, where those properties arise from, but where such properties are equivalent neither to those of individuals nor their interactions. First an examination of group theory is presented. Particular emphasis is placed upon processes of group integration, identity and leadership, using the theories of Freud, Bion, Winnicott, and Lacan. Methodological problems of group research are examined, including problems of definition and measurement, e.g. transindividual processes are defined, described and appropriate measurement of methods are discussed. Finally, within a framework of systems, psychoanalytic and social psychological theories, five small groups are analysed to determine their structural and dynamic properties. The book aimed to extend and develop ideas on group dynamics within the psychoanalytic group psychology tradition. In so doing it emphasised the role of unconscious processes in the nature of collective life. In addition to the more traditional analytic ideas about groups the book draws on the work of Lacan. The book will be of interest to all those concerned with group dynamics, leadership, psychoanalysis, systems theory and social psychology.