The document outlines the structure and elements of a group discussion (GD), including features such as duration, panel members, and speaking times, along with the traits assessed like team spirit and reasoning ability. It highlights the importance of effective communication, body language, and mutual respect, while distinguishing between functional and dysfunctional behaviors. Furthermore, it provides etiquette guidelines for participants and examples of potential discussion topics.

1. FEATURES OF GD
• Duration:15 to 20 minutes
• Panel members:3 to 4
• Time for preparation:5 minutes
• Time for speaking: half or one
minute(3 to 4 times)
• Topic: controversial, case based,
factual.

2. Group discussion
The following traits are assessed:
•Team spirit
•Reasoning ability
•Leadership quality
•Flexibility
•Assertiveness
•Creativity
•Inspiring ability
•Listening
•Awareness

3. Functional behavior in GD
• Initiating
• Clarifying
• Elaborating
• Sharing
• Analyzing
• Evaluating
• Summarizing

4. DISFUNCTIONAL BEHAVIOUR IN
GD
• Aggressive
• Dominating
• Withdrawing
• Whispering
• Sympathizing
• Insulting
• Clowning

5. ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF GD
• Initiating discussion
• Possessing requisite knowledge
• Effective communication
• Body language
• Mutual respect
• Making an impact
• Technique of interruption
• Reaching consensus

6. GD ETTIQUETTE- DO’S
• Be as natural as possible
• Be vocal(3 to 4 times)
• Organize your thoughts
• Decent language
• Mental alertness
• Don’t lose your cool
• Be polite

7. GD ETTIQUETE-DON’TS
• Lose your temper
• Shout
• Use too many gestures
• Interrupt
• Dominate the discussion

8. NON VERBAL COMMUNICATION
IN GD
• Facial expressions
• Hand movements
• Body postures
• Head movements
• Eye contact

9. TOPICS OF GD
1.Controversial: “All politicians
must be at least graduates”
2.Factual: Status of women
in the society.
3.Case based: “ If you were the
Head of your institution…..”