Functional Approach to Group Dynamics

Learning Objectives

• Identify factors enhancing team problem-solving abilities.
• Recognize factors hindering team problem-solving capabilities.

Functional Approach to Team Problem Solving

• Focus on improving problem-solving by understanding effective and disruptive factors.
• Highlights both positive and negative aspects of the team problem-solving process.

Factors That Improve Team Problem Solving

• Inclusion of intelligent problem solvers and vigilant critical thinkers is essential.
• Teams should thoroughly analyze problems, develop alternatives, and select optimal solutions.
• Effective problem-solving processes should minimize social, emotional, and political disruptions.

Characteristics of Effective Team Problem Solvers

• View problems from multiple perspectives to enhance understanding.
• Gather relevant data and conduct research before making decisions.
• Consider various alternatives before committing to a specific solution.
• Balance task management with relational aspects during problem-solving.
• Maintain focus on the problem during discussions, valuing minority opinions.
• Test alternative solutions against established criteria for effectiveness.

Factors That Hurt Team Problem Solving

• Teams often rush to solutions without properly defining the problem.
• Preference for "satisficing" solutions arises due to constraints, as opposed to optimal outcomes.
• Difficulty in identifying the best solution can hinder objective decision-making.
• Poor communication may obstruct effective analysis and problem resolution.
• Non-task-related factors can disrupt the problem-solving process, including:
  • Desire to minimize uncertainty
  • Political influences
  • Competition among team members
  • Unequal distribution of power within the team.