An Analysis of the Development and Evolution of Roles in the Small Group

Abstract

This article presents a critique of current conceptualizations of roles and their development and evolution in the small group. An alternative model is presented, one that is grounded in a structuration perspective and conceives of "role" as social practice. Roles are seen as being produced and reproduced in interaction. Such a conceptualization is helpful in ascertaining the dynamic nature of roles in the small group. Implications for small group research are presented.