Conflict Resolution and Team Dynamics
Team dynamics are important in the scheme of things. Of course, when discussing this subject, it is important to understand the concept of the team. Bentley (2003) explains that in respect to strategy small teams would be created to find solutions to problems. Soon, a general small team approach was created (Bentley, 2003). That is, those in organizations noticed that people work best in small groups to find answers to troubling questions. One might see the jury room as one of the first types of problem resolution teams. Twelve individuals are thrown in a room until they can all agree. In general, teams do not all have to come to one particular resolution or find an answer. Sometimes, teams are used to develop ideas or products. Many television shows for example do not buy scripts from a lone author, but rather have a writing team. Teams often engaged in a creative process. When organizations make use of teams, it is expected that its members are able to get along and fulfill the goals of the team. Team dynamics enter the picture. What are team dynamics exactly? Markulis, Jassawalla & Sashittal (2006) explain that team dynamics include things such as communication, interaction and perceptions of team members. Team dynamics involve the intricacies of human relationships within a group, and conflict is sure to arise at times. While conflict is inevitable, that is not a reason to dismantle a team. Rather, conflict resolution strategies need to be employed. Conflict resolution strategies that are often used in the scope of team dynamics include attention to a mission statement. That is what Wheeler & Stomfay-Stitz (2006) suggest in the context of the classroom. Of course, with the use of missi