Self-Study part b - Team Dynamics

What is a team?

Two or more people working together interdependently to meet a specific goal or purpose.

What is team dynamics?

The unconscious, psychological forces that influence a team's behavior and performance.

What are the effects of positive team dynamics?

Improved performance, trust among team members, and constructive group behavior.

What are the types of teams?

Real Team, Virtual Team, and Mixed Team.

What characterizes a real team?

Face-to-face interaction, full expression of emotions, and easier conflict management.

What are some features of a virtual team?

No physical contact, more flexibility, and higher potential for conflict due to miscommunication.

What is a mixed team?

A team that combines features of both real and virtual teams.

What are strategies for improving team dynamics?

Knowing the team, selecting a leader, defining roles, setting goals, enhancing culture, and effective communication.

Why is defining roles important in a team?

It prevents confusion and ensures everyone knows their responsibilities.

How can communication improve team dynamics?

By ensuring everyone is informed and included, and avoiding ambiguity.

What causes poor team dynamics?

Weak leadership, evaluation apprehension, blocking behavior, groupthink, and free riding.

What is evaluation apprehension?

Fear of being judged harshly by others, causing members to withhold opinions.

What are blocking behaviors?

Actions like aggression, withdrawal, or inappropriate humor that disrupt team flow.

How does groupthink affect team dynamics?

It suppresses dissenting opinions and limits idea exploration.

What is social loafing?

When individuals reduce effort in group settings, relying on others to do the work.