Strategies for Handling Dysfunctional Group Behaviors

Kathy Obear
Amherst, Massachusetts

1. Side conversations

REASONS BEHIND IT:

• may be related to discussion
• boredom
• sitting too long
• may want attention
• may be confused
• may have questions

HOW TO HANDLE:

• pause / ignore it
• ask them if they want to share
• do an energizer
• do a more active learning activity
• confront at break
• walk towards them
• mix up seating
• give option to leave
• eye contact

2. The "expert" challenges presenter

REASONS BEHIND IT:

• may be more knowledgeable
• may need attention
• may need "ego massaged"

HOW TO HANDLE:

• recognize their expertise
• confront at break
• use as group leader
• redirect comment to group for their opinions

3. Clown

REASONS BEHIND IT:

• needs attention
• bored
• releasing tension

HOW TO HANDLE:

• give chance to succeed
• change teaching techniques
• allow laughter
• "let's get back on track"
• confront at break
• confront off-color comments

4. Low participation

REASONS BEHIND IT:

• bored
• shy

HOW TO HANDLE:

• change activity
• small group work
• give more openings for participation
• talk at break
• allow time to prepare thoughts

5. Tangents / rambling

REASONS BEHIND IT:

• misunderstood question
• needs attention

HOW TO HANDLE:

• try to use their comment
• redirect attention
• thank them and go onto next point
• state how they are off the subject, discuss at break
• "Your point is interesting ."
• try to refer back to it later

6. Idea killer / negative comments

REASONS BEHIND IT:

• has a legitimate point
• needs attention
• personality conflict

HOW TO HANDLE:

• ask them to clarify
• ask group or their reactions
• ignore it
• don't reinforce
• ask for a positive idea
• try to make a positive point from their idea

7. Distracting nonverbals

REASONS BEHIND IT:

• bored
• unaware

HOW TO HANDLE:

• change activity
• talk at break
• eye contact
• walk towards them
• ignore it
• get them involved

Kathy Obear is a diversity trainer and consultant based in Amherst, Massachusetts (413) 283-2503.

Copyright © 1991 Kathy Obear. Permission is granted to copy and use this material for educational and non-profit purposes only. This copyright statement and acknowledgement of authorship should remain intact on materials you copy from this website.