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This pamphlet on understanding how groups work is the fourth of 16 in a series to provide leaders in adult activities with sound introductory material to give practical help in using a method of adult education or working in a particular area. Its objective is to help leaders learn about group behavior. Eight articles and how-tos are included. "Pressures of Groups" describes some of the forces that exert pressures on groups. The basic steps in diagnosing causes of disruptive group behavior and sensitivities needed to do this are presented in "Diagnosing Group Problems.""Some Basic Issues" describes three conflicts that all gatherings of individuals face in the process of becoming groups and that need to be resolved. "When They Fight,""It's Apathy If,""Indecision," and "The Hidden Agenda" discuss four types of behavior that commonly trouble groups and suggest the kinds of underlying problems these behaviors often indicate. The final article, "Improving Group Efficiency," suggests ways in which groups may learn to increase their sensitivity to their own processes. (YLB)

This pamphlet on taking action in the community is the third of 16 in a series to provide leaders in adult activities with sound introductory material to give practical help in using a method of adult education or working in a particular area. Its objective is to help leaders plan and carry out a constructive program of social change. Eleven articles and how-tos are included. "Initiating Social Action,""Mobilizing Organizations," and "Mobilizing the Neighbors" suggest attitudes and methods helpful in beginning the job of working with others and discovering people who are likely to cooperate. "Recommended Methods" is a checklist of techniques that experts from nine fields find most helpful in presenting their aims and programs to community groups. The article "When People are Ready" shows specific ways to capitalize on a community's wish to solve its problems. "Community Apathy" is intended to help leaders see whether their analysis of community needs, plans, and techniques are adequate. Action groups are the focus of "From Ideas to Action.""Phases of Community Action" is a chart that provides a key to overall planning. "Counter-Attack" and "A Quick Look Into Conflict" help to anticipate difficulties and prevent emergencies as programs begin to affect the community. Attitudes of conformity or unthinking acceptance of things as they are are considered in "The Lost Art of Controversy." A bibliography is provided. (YLB)

This guide provides an introduction to the theories of why conflicts occur and presents models and techniques of conflict regulation. Some of the topics discussed are: legal regulation, the deterrence model, bargaining, third-party intervention, and self-limiting conflict processes. As examples of the latter processes, the Gandhian model of self-limiting conflict and the Norwegian resistance during World War II are presented. A report is then given on a teaching program allowing college students opportunities for involvement in community conflicts. Finally, an annotated bibliography and a group of classroom exercises are presented. (BB)