Authors : Andrey V. Sidorenkov, Vadim A. Dorofeev, Nina G. Keleberda and Olga V. Pereverzeva
Abstract: The study studies linear and nonlinear relationships between three levels of identity (group, microgroup and interpersonal identity) on cognitive, affective and behavioral components in work groups. Two corresponding questionnaires were used for the study. The 331 employees from 37 groups participated in the research. Tangible linear relationship was clearly seen between microgroup and interpersonal identities in all three components. To a certain degree it was also seen between group and microgroup identities and there was absolutely no relationship between group and interpersonal identities. Nonlinear type prevailed in the relationships between the group and microgroup identity. In nonlinear relationship microgroup identity proved to be explicitly more determined by group identity. The most appropriate was quadratic functional relationship between these levels of identity. The peculiarity of this relationship lies in the fact that the increase of group identity is accompanied by a decrease in microgroup identity. It is true until the vertex of parabola is reached. At the point of inflection the trend is changing to the opposite: the further strengthening of group identity is accompanied, on the contrary, by an increase in microgroup identity. This transition had primarily manifested itself in affective component.
Andrey V. Sidorenkov, Vadim A. Dorofeev, Nina G. Keleberda and Olga V. Pereverzeva, 2016. Functional Relationships of Identity Levels in Work Groups. The Social Sciences, 11: 5408-5417.