Reflect on the assigned readings and then type a 600 word paper regarding what you thought was the most important concept(s), method(s), term(s), and/or any other thing that you felt was worthy of you

reflection and discussion forum – week 4

REFLECTIONS OF ASSIGNED READING FROM CHAPTERS 9-10

RACHEL C GILBERT

University of the Cumberlands

September 19, 2019

In the reading for this week there was one topic that resonated with me in a strong way. That was the topic dealing with, “Team Cohesion” This is where there may be persons whom would join a group for various and sundry reasons that has nothing to do with the actual ordinance of the group but rather because their friend or friends may have joined. I had also read where people may even join a group due to some strange obsession with one of the members of the team which in some cases can cause the team to not function as it should.

These are my reflections on how I see this. I have been on many teams in the past. Some I was very passionate about and others I was there because I could offer sound advice, either way my input was needed and necessary. However, I have been on teams where I would wonder why in the world a certain person is on the team. I would think that person had to have had an inside advantage in order to be on the team and allowed to make such decisions that would impact a great number of people. How could they be when they are not fully interested. This is so wrong in my opinion. You join a group for the cause and that can be a serious matter, especially when the group is making serious decisions. I get so perturbed when it comes down to brainstorming and coming up with ideas and concepts that require the efforts of the entire group and these people have nothing to give, nothing to add, nothing.

There was a time when I was asked to collaborate with a community group that would decide whether a company that wanted to come into our area would be a good fit for our community. We had Town Hall sessions where the community would come out and voice their opinions and concerns about the company and the products that this company would produce. The members of the group were to be amongst the panel set to answer the questions voiced by the members of the community. Once, a particular question was asked directly to the member I am speaking of and this member burst out laughing and had the gall to say, “ I am not completely sure of that answer, I know that I want to say, but on the day that this was being discussed I was not there, I had an appointment with my baby mama and no one told me what was discussed when I got back. So I am going to send this question over to one of the other members…” and then he laughed!!! I was livid!

Teams may not be for everyone, but teams exist and are real in nature. I think many people have heard the word, “Team” so much that it is taken for granted or as a joke. In my opinion teams help so many people and can offer coffers to those in need. To be a part of something that is greater than we are and has the capability to change lives is priceless.

In conclusion, some members of these groups can be in the group for the wrong reasons. Some members identify with the team and are there to have a sense of belonging or an affinity for what may be familiar. Often people are drawn to other members and are only participating to be closer to this team member, they become emotionally attached and need the team cohesion to keep them together, and however productive they may be.