International Encyclopedia of Communication Online

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The functional theory of group decision-making, while relatively recent as a formal theory, has origins dating well back into twentieth century ( Gouran et al. 1993 ). One significant origin is the adaptation of American philosopher John Dewey's method of reflective thinking for use in the teaching of group discussion by speech teachers ( Dewey 1997 , 1st pub. 1910; →  Speech Communication, History of ). In Dewey's characterization, the method consists of five steps: (1) a felt difficulty; (2) its location and definition; (3) suggestion of possible solution; (4) development by reasoning of the bearings of the suggestion; and (5) further observation and experiment leading to its acceptance or rejection; that is, the conclusion of belief or disbelief. Early on, teachers interested in communication in groups converted these steps into a standard agenda for conducting decision-making and problem-solving discussions (see, e.g., Ewbank & Auer 1941 ). The presumption was that following these steps and cultivating the corresponding habits of mind would lead to better decisions (→  Group Communication ; Group Communication and Problem-Solving ). A second origin of the functional theory of group decision-making was work by sociologist Robert Freed Bales (1950) , who was a strong proponent of equilibrium theory as applied to groups. Bales posited that decision-making groups strive ... log in or subscribe to read full text