What roles are defined by Benne and Sheats in a group context?

• A. Task, individual, maintenance
• B. Leadership, follower, observer
• C. Facilitator, participant, evaluator
• D. Reactive, proactive, collaborative

Answer: (A)

Benne and Sheats identified three key categories of roles that individuals can assume within a group context: task roles, maintenance roles, and individual roles.

Task roles are focused on the group's objectives, facilitating progress towards goals, and include roles like initiator, information seeker, and coordinator. These roles help ensure that the group remains productive and can effectively solve problems.

Maintenance roles, on the other hand, focus on building and maintaining relationships among group members. They foster a supportive atmosphere and include roles such as harmonizer, gatekeeper, and encourager. These roles are crucial for enhancing group cohesion and morale.

Individual roles, which differ from the first two categories, pertain to behaviors that may not align with the group's purposes and often serve personal interests rather than the group's goals. Examples include the dominator and the cynic. These roles can disrupt group dynamics and hinder the group's overall effectiveness.

The definitions provided in the correct answer encapsulate the essence of Benne and Sheats' framework, making it vital for understanding group dynamics and facilitating effective interactions within a counseling context.