Getting Together: A Guide for Good Groups

by Em Griffin

Prayer, study, service, fellowship, fun, decision making, discussion. People get together in groups for all kinds of reasons in all kinds of settings--schools, churches, neighborhoods, volunteer organizations. Some groups are alive and growing; others are dull and dying. In this bright and lively book, Em Griffin focuses on what makes groups good by discussing three types--task groups which have a job to do, relationshp groups which fill our need for community, and influence groups which help people change. He covers such topics as conflict, deviance, persuasion, expectations, leadership and how to have a good discussion. A book for everyone who wants to be in a good group.

Genres: Nonfiction

233 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1982

About the author

Em Griffin received his B.A. in political science from the University of Michigan, and his M.A. and Ph.D. in Communication from Northwestern University. He is professor of communication at Wheaton College in Illinois, where he has taught for the past 26 years and has been chosen Teacher of the Year. His research interest centers on the development of close friendships. Dr. Griffin is the author of three applied communication books: The Mind Changers analyzes practical techniques of persuasion; Getting Together offers research-based suggestions for effective group leadership; and Making Friends describes the way that quality interpersonal communication can build close relationships. He also leads workshops on these topics in the Philippines, Singapore, and the United States.

Reviews

[Anna Enderle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bro loves back rubs and I’m pretty sure he cheated on his wife but he has some good insights about leading groups I suppose

[Brent · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Em Griffin. He makes social theory applicable for the lay person. And he goes to the hard work of making sense of sociology for the church. If you want to know how small groups work and why...this book can help. However, there are other, more contemporary books that more clearly spell out small group ministry.

[Wayne Presnell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book very much though it was dated in some spots. I really appreciated Griffin's sense of humor and the cartoons he selected were worth the price of the book. I bought the book to gain some help with small groups in my church. I'm not sure it helped with that, but I gained unexpected insight into group dynamics. It is definitely worth the read.

[Brice Bowman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good resource for small group leaders, even though it's an old book.