Team Dysfunction

Posted On: 07-06-2020

Coaches as you prepare for fall and begin to organize your team into a cohesive, functional winning machine, here are a few things to consider about teams.

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

• Dysfunction #1: Absence of Trust
  • The fear of being vulnerable with team members prevents the building of trust within the team.

• Dysfunction #2: Fear of Conflict
  • The desire to preserve artificial harmony stifles the occurrence of productive ideological conflict.

• Dysfunction #3: Lack of Commitment
  • The lack of clarity or buy-in prevents team members from making decisions they will stick to.

• Dysfunction #4: Avoidance of Accountability
  • The need to avoid interpersonal discomfort prevents team members from holding one another accountable.

• Dysfunction #5: Inattention to Results
  • The pursuit of individual goals and personal status erodes the focus on collective success.

Work to counter these dysfunctions and head them off quickly.  In the end your team will be the envy of others and your team performance will improve as they rely upon each other for success.

David R. Vaught, PH.D.

Executive Director