In Vivo Observation Experience, Essay Example

Location of the Group

There were 2 people observed in my group. An older Male and a new young female supervisor.

Purpose of the Group

This was a formal meeting between a new young female supervisor and an employee who was an older male person. The girl’s objective was trying to get the man to focus on the importance and respect of his job. The man was a long standing employee, having been with the firm for 15 years. The girl was trying to build the man’s self-esteem by providing verbal praise and positive reinforcement in the hopes that he would respond and commit to her identified objectives of working.

The Behaviours observed

The girl seemed somewhat nervous and apprehensive at the meeting. A furrowed brow, moving restlessly in her chair and tapping the table were obvious body movements indicating unease.  The man looked tense and in apprehension of the new younger person and he appeared in fear of the agenda. Once he was praised he relaxed became more forthcoming in the conversation and started to smile with the odd controlled laugh. This also broke the ice with the girl who started to relax and feel that she had gained control over the meeting.  At this point she collected a coffee for both of them, from a nearby vending machine. The meeting then took on an air of relaxed discussion whereby they seemed to have a much cordial discussion.  The girl appeared satisfied that she was able to have a worthwhile and constructive conversation with him.

The Setting and Environment

A quiet seat and table in a private part of the Cafeteria.  These seemed well suited to the purpose of the meeting.  Not too formal but private enough for the two to have a discreet conversation about work objectives and relationships.