12 Angry Men (The Movie)

Abstract

12 Angry Men is a movie that exhibits the importance of group dynamics in the overall decision-making process. This paper identifies the group dynamics in the movie by analyzing the character of each juror and discusses how the diversity of member affects the overall group decision-making process. Furthermore, the paper will present how a leader will handle the situation presented in the movie by using the RAP model.

Table of Contents

Abstract2

Introduction4

Discussion4

Group Dynamics in the Movie4

Impact of the members' diversity on the group process6

The RAP model7

Conclusion8

References9

Introduction

12 Angry Men is a movie that brilliantly exhibits the effect of group dynamics in the decision-making process. The characters of the twelve jurors in the movie have been developed meticulously in order to represent the different facets of human nature. The movie portrays in an exquisite manner how the unique personalities of these twelve people positively influenced the overall decision-making process.

At the beginning of the movie, it is seen that all except one member of the jury are convinced that the defendant is guilty. The extent of this can be seen from the fact that they are willing to condemn him to the electric chair without discussing the issue at all. However, one juror stands up against this and urges other to at least discuss the case before taking the decision.

Once the jury starts to discuss the case, they bring their individual insight into the discussion. This enables them to analyze the case from different aspects and reach the optimal decision. This shows that the diversity of the jury positively affected the decision making process.

The Rap Model is an extremely useful to help a leader to deal with a diverse group like the one presented in the movie.

Discussion

Group Dynamics in the Movie

The 12 jurors have unique characteristics and it is important to analyze them in detail in order to fully comprehend the group dynamics depicted in the movie.

The juror #1 has been given the role of serving as the jury's foreman. He represents a leader who is trying to serve his authoritative role as fairly as possible even though he does not enjoy the task and is trying his best to hide the fact that he is confused about his role.

The Juror #2 is a timid and quiet person with low self-esteem. He does not think that his views are of any importance and hence, is easily persuaded by the opinions of other.

Juror #3 is perhaps the most complex person in the jury. At first sight, he seems like a calm and composed person contributing positively in the discussion. However, as the discussion progresses, he gets more and more passionate, somehow being completely convinced that the defendant is guilty. The audience realizes later that he is biased because of his troubled relationship with his son. This shows a classic case of a bias that makes the person block the reasonable decision on irrational basis.

The Juror #4 is a self-assured person that is extremely logical in his reasoning, ...