Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolutions in Work Teams

Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution in Work Teams 2 Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution are a common part of today 's workforce. They are advantageous for the productivity and morale of the individual employees. Yet with all groups comes conflict. Knowing how to handle group conflict effectively and still work together is an integral part of a successful team. First, we will take a look at Team Dynamics understanding what a group is, types of groups, and the function of group members. Next, we will focus on social changes in the workplace, group development process, group roles and norms which include; basic building blocks of group dynamics, the effects of group structure, member characteristics on the group outcome, and a checklist for managers who wish to ensure proper group development. Secondly, we will focus on Conflict Resolution in today 's workforce. We first will need to look at what "conflict" means, then discuss the three types of conflict in a group, two constructive and destructive conflict, conflict styles, approaches to conflict management, group cohesion, adapting to differences, and finally balancing conflict and cohesion in work teams. A "group" can be defined as two or more freely interacting people who share collective norms and goals and have a common identity. Individuals join groups, or are assigned to groups, to accomplish various purposes that are usually divided into two major groups, known as a formal or informal group. If the group is formed by a manager to help an organization accomplish goals, then it qualifies as a formal group: Formal groups wear labels such as work groups, team, committee, quality circle, or task force. An informal group exists when the members overriding purpose of getting together is friendship or common interests.
Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution in Work Teams 3

Formal groups fulfill two basic functions; organizational and individual which are listed below in Table 12-2.

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