Predicting transactive memory system in multidisciplinary teams: The interplay between team and professional identities

Jenny Liao, Anne T. O'Brien, Nerina L. Jimmieson, Simon Lloyd D. Restubog

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In explaining how communication quality predicts TMS in multidisciplinary teams, we drew on the social identity approach to investigate the mediating role of team identification and the moderating role of professional identification. Recognizing that professional identification could trigger intergroup biases among professional subgroups, or alternatively, could bring resources to the team, we explored the potential moderating role of professional identification in the relationship between team identification and TMS. Using data collected from 882 healthcare personnel working in 126 multidisciplinary hospital teams, results supported our hypothesis that perceived communication quality predicted TMS through team identification. Furthermore, findings provided support for a resource view of professional subgroup identities with results indicating that high levels of professional identification compensated for low levels of team identification in predicting TMS. We provide recommendations on how social identities may be used to promote TMS in multidisciplinary teams.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)965-977
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Business Research
Volume68
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1 2015
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Multidisciplinary teams
  • Professional identification
  • Team identification
  • Transactive memory system

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Marketing

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