Group Dynamics and Teamwork Quiz

What is a primary reason groups are formed?

• To increase competition

• To avoid responsibilities

• To fulfill social needs

• To pursue individual goals

Answer explanation

Groups are primarily formed to fulfill social needs, such as companionship, support, and belonging. While competition and individual goals may play a role, the fundamental reason is the human desire for social connection.

Which of the following best distinguishes a group from a team?

• Teams are larger than groups.

• Groups have a leader, teams do not.

• Teams hold each other accountable, groups do not.

• Groups have a common goal, teams do not.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights that teams hold each other accountable, which is a key distinction from groups. While groups may work together, teams actively support and ensure accountability among their members.

What is one advantage of working in teams?

• Reduced accountability

• Less communication

• Greater work force flexibility

• Increased individual workload

Answer explanation

One advantage of working in teams is greater workforce flexibility, as team members can share tasks and adapt to each other's strengths, leading to more efficient collaboration and better overall outcomes.

Which of the following is a disadvantage of teamwork?

• Improved decision-making

• Potential for conflict

• Increased social support

• Enhanced creativity

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Potential for conflict', highlights a disadvantage of teamwork, as differing opinions and personalities can lead to disagreements, which may hinder collaboration and productivity.

According to Tuckman's model, which stage comes after 'Storming'?

• Forming

• Norming

• Performing

• Adjourning

Answer explanation

In Tuckman's model, the 'Storming' stage is followed by the 'Norming' stage, where team members start to resolve conflicts and establish norms for collaboration, leading to improved teamwork.

What is a characteristic of effective teams?

• Limited communication

• Clear purpose

• Strict hierarchy

• Individual decision-making

Answer explanation

Effective teams have a clear purpose, which aligns their efforts and enhances collaboration. This focus on a shared goal fosters communication and teamwork, unlike limited communication, strict hierarchy, or individual decision-making.

What type of conflict is considered constructive?

• Affective conflict

• Cognitive conflict

• Destructive conflict

• Personal conflict

Answer explanation

Cognitive conflict is constructive as it involves differing viewpoints and ideas, leading to better decision-making and problem-solving. In contrast, affective, destructive, and personal conflicts tend to hinder collaboration.

Which strategy involves resolving minor conflicts before they escalate?

• Mediation

• Proaction

• Arbitration

• Retreat

Answer explanation

Proaction is a strategy that focuses on addressing minor conflicts early to prevent them from escalating into larger issues. This proactive approach helps maintain harmony and resolve disputes before they become significant.

What does 'shared leadership' in a team imply?

• Only one person leads at all times.

• Leadership is avoided to prevent conflict.

• Members do not have any leadership roles.

• Leadership roles shift based on circumstances.

Answer explanation

'Shared leadership' means that leadership roles are flexible and can change based on the team's needs and circumstances, allowing different members to lead at different times.

What is the focus of affective conflict?

• Task completion

• Issues and ideas

• Team goals

• Feelings and personalities

Answer explanation

Affective conflict centers on feelings and personalities, rather than tasks or goals. It arises from interpersonal issues, making 'feelings and personalities' the correct focus for this type of conflict.