During my membership with this group I observed several behaviors but at that time, I did not comprehend the significance. Looking at it now as an ex-member I have a better understanding for the behavior. Due to the number of years of participating with this group I feel I have sufficient data to prove that a group leader and member of the group should not develop a strong bond or friendship outside of the group. Developing such a friendship can ultimately have a negative impact amongst other group members by creating jealousy and rivalry, causing the destruction of the friendship. Furthermore, the chaos and negative feelings aroused by the other group members is so time consuming, that it leaves little time available for the group to achieve their original goals and purpose. Towards the end of my long journey with this group I came to the sad realization that values are not always about morality. Too often, values are simply preferences. Although not the norm, in this case the minority persuaded the majority. .
The variables in my research are friendship, jealousy, insecurity and animosity. The problem aroused when the leader and a member of the group developed a friendship outside of the group. These two individuals shared similar qualities and interests. They often ate together and participated in other hobbies of their likings. Once the rest of the members saw the friendship evolve, there was a sense of jealousy. One member in particular formed a sub-group and became the leader of the group. The motive was derived from misperception and insecurity. The sub-group declared accusations of favoritism. If perceptions were always accurate, people would understand one another better and conflict would be practically nonexistent. Unfortunately, perceptual biases usually distort individuals" conclusions (Baumeister, 1999). .
The main function of the group was to work from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, in a business hospital setting, handling confidential patient information.