Developing the Systems-Centered Functional Subgrouping Questionnaire-2.

Abstract

Functional subgrouping is the Systems-Centered (SCT) method for discriminating and integrating differences between and within group members in SCT group work. In this 3-phase study, we developed the Functional Subgrouping Questionnaire-2 (FSQ-2) and tested whether it discriminates groups that use functional subgrouping from those that do not. In phase I, we created the instrument itself using Guttman scaling. In phase II, we piloted the 9-item FSQ-2 on 8 SCT groups {n = 106) to determine whether it was sensitive to predicted differences in how SCT groups with varying levels of experience used functional subgrouping. After analysis, the scale was shortened by eliminating low-frequency group events and improving readability. In phase III, we tested this revised 7-item FSQ-2 to see whether it discriminated between members in SCT groups (n = 111) and non-SCT groups (n = 469); we administered it to 29 non-SCT groups representing 8 other theoretical orientations, and 7 SCT groups. Results showed tfie FSQ-2 discriminated between SCT and non-SCT groups as well as between SCT group members with more or less SCT experience. The FSQ-2 may be useful in training SCT leaders and in outcome studies for discriminating between groups that use functional subgrouping and groups that do not.

Systems-Centered Functional Subgrouping and Large-Group Outcome

“…This was a partial replication of O'Neill and Constantino's (2008) findings. Like O'Neill and Constantino (2008), however, O'Neill and colleagues (2012) urged caution in interpreting the results, in this case noting that the SCT FSQ had adequate but limited reliability and validity data (O'Neill et al, 2013).…”

“…Whenever significant differences in experience arise that could potentiate conflict, the group uses SCT's method of functional subgrouping to structure supportive, goal-focused communication. Members who are functionally subgrouping on one side of the conflict join on their experience in the common here and now, while the group as a whole holds the potentially conflictual differences aside for later exploration in a different subgroup (O'Neill et al, 2013). When the initial subgroup has explored its side of the conflict sufficiently, the other subgroup does its exploration, until an integration of the issues occurs in the group as a whole.…”

Systems-Centered Management: A Brief Review of Theory, Practice and Research

“…Future research should include experimental manipulations of SCT methods and random assignment of subjects to experimental and control conditions. In addition, future research should employ the new Functional Subgrouping Questionnaire-2 that assesses the use of the theoreticallyderived sequential behavioral steps of functional subgrouping [26]. Doing so would allow for a check of accurate use of the method while also testing for hypothesized outcomes.…”

“…In this process, all members are encouraged to voice their viewpoints and the members with a similar viewpoint join together in a subgroup to discuss that overall perspective. Because each subgroup eventually has the opportunity to explore its particular point of view, all sides of the issue are introduced and discussed over the course of the meeting with the goal of integrating the differences creatively [26]. SCT leaders train members to value all the different task-related voices in a team and to communicate this way in all contexts.…”

“…A new version measure, the SCT Functional Subgrouping Questionnaire-2 has been developed [26]. Initial research has shown it to reliably distinguish between SCT groups and non-SCT groups.…”