Communication Analysis
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In addition, as interdependent relationships are formed, group members become more depersonalized and in turn, concerned for the welfare of other members. Each member has his or her own idiosyncrasy that distinguishes them from the others; however, it is obvious that the identity of each character in the Seinfeld group is representative of each other. A few that are prominent are their martial status (single), their age (late 30s) and they are funny in their own ways. Positive evaluations and liking for other associates are induced by the knowledge that they share a common group identity and these characteristics bring the group together. However, George finds their collective identity a problem when he believes Cheryl will like his friends more than she likes him because they are funnier. Consequently, George tells Elaine and Jerry to be less humorous so that George can appear to be the funniest person in their group and impress Cheryl. Due to their sense of unity and loyalty, Georges request was fulfilled.
The quality of group decisions is substantially affected by group norms, as each individual relies on in-group contribution rather than evidence obtained from outside sources. This is shown in Seinfeld when Kramer and George purchased a secondhand wheelchair for Kramers girlfriend, as it was significantly cheaper than a brand new one. A further analysis of the Seinfeld group illustrates that their decision was not only the result of both their personal characteristics and lack of information, but also the product of the group identity as a whole. Another example was when the group had to buy an engagement present for their good friend and each decided to chip-in to purchase a big-screen TV that was on sale. Although good deeds were performed, concern for the interests and outcomes of the group were of more importance. Kramer and George made a poor decision to purchase a secondhand wheelchair despite the harmful effects it could have caused, as they were both more interested in saving money, rather than providing a disabled woman with a safe wheelchair. Similarly, the notion of saving money was again illustrated when the group purchased a reduced big-screen TV for an engagement present. The groups collective identity is quite evident from these two instances.
It is common knowledge that people are more likely to become friends with others they perceive as having similar characteristics, values and attitudes to themselves. However, the identities of each member in the Seinfeld group are noticeably different. This is most observable in the distinction between Jerry and Georges identities. George appears to be selfish, neurotic, scheming and insecure the majority of the time. This is evident when George meets and impresses Cheryl but then suddenly becomes depressed as he realises he just put on his best show and cannot perform any better. On the other hand, Jerry has an upbeat personality,