Bona fide groups: A reconceptualization of groups in context

Abstract

This study culminates in the identification of what can be called “bona fide groups,” a theoretical category proposed for future small group research. In some respects an answer to the various calls and critiques in the previous papers, the article begins with an examination of differing research approaches to naturalistic groups, including discussions of groups in field settings, the use of descriptive‐exploratory designs, full‐fledged and intact groups, and naturally emergent groups. Next, a review of the literature on naturalistic groups provides both a framework for identifying bona fide groups and a rationale for future research to focus on such groups.