Explores reasons for the conflicts that arise in participative decision making and, based on concepts concerning types of human behavior and group effectiveness, develops guidelines for determining the appropriateness of participation in various types of decisions. (Author/IRT)

Discusses the characteristics of pressure groups and how they attempt to influence decision making. Provides a synthesis of three typologies classifying pressure groups. Offers school administrators suggestions for dealing with pressure groups, emphasizing the need to accommodate various interests within the educational system. (MLF)