Case 14.2: They Dominated the Conversation
Case synopsis and analysis
A health care team made up of two physicians, a social worker (Cathy), a nurse practitioner
(Sharon), a physical therapist (Nancy) and a child life worker (Janet) coordinate the care of
Learning objectives:
1. Students will be able to assess the effectiveness of a team according to Hill’s Model for
Answers to questions in the text:
1. How would you assess the effectiveness of this team?
Hill’s model for team effectiveness focuses on two critical functions: performance (task
accomplishment) and development (maintenance of the team). Team performance
2. In monitoring this team, at what level and function do you see the most serious problems?
Internal task? Internal relational? External?
When there is an internal conflict between members of a group, internal relational actions
3. Would you take action to improve team functioning? If so, how would you intervene?
Why?
Someone should take action to improve team functioning. Indeed, failing team members
4. What specific leadership skill or skills would you use to improve group functioning?
Potential teaching approaches:
Below is a way to structure a class based on case study 14.2:
• Hold a lecture on teamwork.
Northouse, Leadership: Theory and Practice, Seventh Edition: Instructor Resource
Exercises for this case study:
1) Students assume the role of leader for this team. The leader understands the team’s
dysfunctions and wants to develop a plan to turn the team around.
In small groups, students work together to create an action plan for the team. How
2) Role-play: Students play the parts of leader (number 1 above), physician, and a few key
team members. Together, they discuss what needs to happen in order for the team to run