Abstract
The interactions of six groups, two homogeneous and aphics. four diverse. Including interviews with each group member, were observed over a three week period in order to determine the effects of both diversity and a training program based on Bormann's Symbolic Convergence Theory (SCT). It was found that the presence of diversity does result in a less comfortable, cohesive group climate, although the quality of interaction was higher in diverse groups than in homogeneous groups. Diverse groups who went through the training program were more cohesive and members reported greater satisfaction with their group interaction than members of untrained diverse groups. This thesis considers previous diversity research, the concepts of SCT, and the findings of all six groups in ascertaining the effectiveness of the SCT-based program on interaction in diverse work groups.
Church, Crystal Caye (1999). Let's all go to the beach: symbolic convergence training in diverse work groups. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -1999 -THESIS -C48.