Toward a communication theory of group dialectics: an ethnographic study of a community theater group

Abstract

A dialectical perspective recognizes that there are tensions between oppositions in human interaction such as the need for independence and the need for dependence. This approach has been instrumental in exploring the dialectical tensions and coping strategies individuals use in interpersonal contexts. This ethnographic study utilized a dialectical perspective to examine group communication in a community theater group. The results revealed 11 specific dialectical tensions within the group that represent four more global issues for the group as well as a number of communication strategies that group members use to manage those tensions. These issues provide a framework for further development of a communication theory of group dialectics.

Keywords:

• Dialectics
• Group
• Ethnography
• Community theater

Notes

Michael W. Kramer is Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Missouri‐Columbia. A previous version of this manuscript was presented at the National Communication Association Annual Convention in Miami, Florida, November, 2003. Correspondence to: Michael W. Kramer, 115 Switzler Hall, Department of Communication, University of Missouri‐Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Email: [email protected].

The names of the production company and all the participants have been changed in order to protect confidentiality.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michael W. Kramer

Michael W. Kramer is Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Missouri‐Columbia. A previous version of this manuscript was presented at the National Communication Association Annual Convention in Miami, Florida, November, 2003. Correspondence to: Michael W. Kramer, 115 Switzler Hall, Department of Communication, University of Missouri‐Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Email: [email protected].