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Socially shared cognition, affect, and behavior: a review and integration
1Organization Behavior Department, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA. lthompson@nwu.edu
Summary
This review explores four models of socially shared cognition and behavior, distinct from traditional group mind theories. It highlights immediate interaction and reciprocal influence as key to understanding group dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Sociology
- Organizational Behavior
Background:
- Traditional models of group behavior often focus on collective consciousness or crowd dynamics.
- A gap exists in understanding the nuanced processes underlying shared cognition and behavior within groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and categorize four classes of models for socially shared cognition and behavior.
- To differentiate these models from traditional concepts like the 'group mind' and 'crowd behavior'.
Main Methods:
- Literature review integrating research from social psychology, sociology, and organization behavior.
- Analysis of theoretical frameworks for supraindividual, information-processing, communication, and social interaction models.
Main Results:
- Identified four distinct classes of models: supraindividual, information-processing, communication, and social interaction.
- Highlighted key processes: immediate interaction, reciprocal influence, goal-directed behavior, information negotiation, and social identity.
Conclusions:
- These models offer an innovative approach to group study, distinct from historical perspectives.
- Individual processes are essential but insufficient for a comprehensive social psychology of shared understanding.