Points out of 1 Flag question moodle.mcny.edu Which of the following statements are true? Select one: a. Personality characteristics may affect an individual’s effectiveness as a team member. b. Introversion has been shown to be related to high team member effectiveness. c. Machiavellianism is a desirable trait in a team member. d. A high need for affiliation is a primary attribute related to being an effective team member. Next page
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is a: “Personality characteristics may affect an individual’s effectiveness as a team member.”
Explanation:
Personality traits play a significant role in team dynamics and can impact how effectively individuals contribute to team goals. Let’s break down the options:
a. Personality characteristics may affect an individual’s effectiveness as a team member.
- True: Personality traits such as openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and emotional stability (often referred to as the “Big Five” personality traits) have been shown to influence how well individuals work in teams. For example, someone high in agreeableness may foster better cooperation, while someone high in conscientiousness may be more reliable and diligent in completing tasks. Thus, personality characteristics are indeed important in determining how well someone performs in a team setting.
b. Introversion has been shown to be related to high team member effectiveness.
- False: While introversion does not automatically equate to low team effectiveness, it is generally associated with more reserved behavior, which may not always align with active participation in team discussions or decision-making processes. That said, introverts can be valuable team members in tasks that require careful thinking and independent work, but they may not necessarily contribute to “high team member effectiveness” as a general rule.
c. Machiavellianism is a desirable trait in a team member.
- False: Machiavellianism refers to manipulation, deceit, and a focus on personal gain. In a team setting, such traits are typically undesirable because they can lead to a lack of trust and collaboration. Effective teams thrive on open communication, honesty, and cooperation, which is at odds with Machiavellian behaviors.
d. A high need for affiliation is a primary attribute related to being an effective team member.
- False: While a need for affiliation can enhance social connections within a team, it does not necessarily translate into effectiveness. People with a high need for affiliation may prioritize social harmony over task completion, which could sometimes hinder progress in high-performance teams where clear objectives and accountability are essential.
In summary, the personality characteristics of team members—such as their ability to cooperate, communicate, and take responsibility—are critical to team effectiveness.
