Issue 3
Vol. 41
1999
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Group
Effectiveness: A Balance between Heterogeneity and Homogeneity Both "Opposites attract" and "Sames attract"- according to German proverbs. But which is true for group effectiveness? Is homogeneity in as many areas as possible deemed relevant for the group's performance, a factor which might augment effectiveness? Or is this in the contrary guaranteed by a high level of heterogeneity? Or is performance enhanced by a combination of high heterogeneity in some areas and homogeneity in other areas (which areas might these be, however?). This article will provide an overview on different aspects of this controversy. Culture-specific aspects of heterogeneity in work groups will also be taken into consideration. Key words: group effectiveness, diversity, heterogeneity, homogeneity Psychologische Beiträge, Volume 41, 1999, p. 226-236 Prof. Dr. Alexander Thomas
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