Book excerpt: Abstract: The text is written for readers with a command of basic principles of social psychology but have relatively little background in the study of group behavior. The author suggests that groups are formed for a broad variety of purposes and that our effectiveness in working with groups can be increased by understanding some of the many variables that affect group processes. The author introduces findings from a number of empirical studies to make inferences about group behavior. After introducing the reader to the study of small groups the author addresses several key topical areas in a chapter by chapter approach: (1) individuals and groups, (2) group formation and development, (3) physical environment of groups, (4) personal characteristics of group members, (5) group composition, (6) group structure, (7) leadership, (8) group tasks and group goals, (9) groups in action, and (10) issues and problems.