The Structure and Function of Task Conflict: An Investigation of Quality and Frequency

Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Abstract
The impact of task-focused discussions in teams should theoretically support innovative performance; yet, research has revealed mixed findings. The current research proposed that in addition to measuring Task Conflict (TC) frequency, researchers should concurrently measure the quality of TC, which would represent distinct constructs. Further, this research proposes that these emergent states are further distinguished by different trends over time and unique drivers. Results support quality and frequency being two distinct states; however, they both follow a similar positive trajectory over time. Although only marginally significant, quality appeared to be the stronger predictor of team performance. Additionally, initial psychological safety appears to drive both frequency and quality but relationship conflict only drives TC quality. The current findings demonstrate that considering the “quality” of task-focused discussion, and how it unfolds over time, is uniquely related to team performance and the importance of considering this new construct in future theoretical conflict frameworks.
Description
Keywords
Psychology--Industrial
Citation
Derban, G. (2017). The Structure and Function of Task Conflict: An Investigation of Quality and Frequency (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/28392