ABSTRACT
Team dynamics theory (TDT) derives from previous theoretical work in the sport, exercise, and performance psychology field. High-performing sports teams are said to have “good chemistry,” similar to how a complex molecule is formed by several chemical elements, and scholars and practitioners concur that success in team settings hinges on many well-connected team properties. To advance research on the nomological network linking several team processes and outcomes, scholars must test alternative equivalent and non-equivalent models of team dynamics. TDT is a parsimonious systemic framework aimed at explaining part of the complex phenomenon of team birth and development. Collective efficacy pertains to teammates’ confidence in the team’s capability to reach its goals and potential, and is dependent on teammates’ conjoint levels of ability, preparation, effort, and persistence. The study of how leadership influences the nomological network proposed in TDT is particularly warranted, as leadership is central to the science of working teams.
