In the realm of team building and collaboration, engagement is the force that propels teams toward their goals. However, it's equally important to observe and understand the pitfalls of disengagement, as these can serve as valuable lessons for real-world teamwork. We think of the three common human instinctual choices when faced with danger: fight, flight, or freeze. At Amplio Games, our game simulations have illustrated these same reactions when individuals are challenged with complex puzzles (fortunately, puzzles are much less dangerous than lions).

Each response offers unique insights into how team members react under. In this post, we will explore the importance of observing engagement in team building and how it can illuminate the consequences of disengagement in real-world collaborative efforts.

The Three Reactions to Challenges

Fight - The Competitive Spirit: Some individuals exhibit a relentless determination to overcome obstacles, no matter how confusing or complex they may be. These "fighters" are often driven by a competitive spirit and a refusal to admit defeat. While this persistence can be an asset, it should be balanced with effective teamwork, as fighters can suffer from a sort of “bloodlust,” where they lose awareness of their surroundings such as team progress, collaboration, and communication.

Flight - The Quick Retreat: On the opposite end of the spectrum are the "flighters." These team members tend to lose interest quickly when puzzles become challenging and may physically retreat from the game. Temporary disengagement can allow for a moment of regrouping and refocusing, but it should be communicated to the team to prevent misunderstandings.

Freeze - The Silent Observer: "Freezers" are individuals who become non-communicative when they feel they have nothing to offer or when they find the challenge overwhelming. They become passive observers, which can hinder the team's progress if their disengagement persists.

The Impact of Disengagement

Understanding the impact of disengagement in team environments is crucial so individuals and members can be ready for it and prevent the dysfunction it can create.

Temporary Disengagement as a Strategy: It's essential to acknowledge that temporary disengagement is not always detrimental. It can provide an opportunity for team members to collect their thoughts and regain focus. However, proper communication with the team (e.g., “Hey, I need to step away for a minute but will be right back”) is key to ensure that such moments are understood and do not lead to misinterpretation.

Long-Term Disengagement Risks: Extended periods of disengagement, whether through flight or freezing, pose a risk to the team's overall performance. They can jeopardize goal completion, create in-team conflicts, and erode team dynamics.

Conclusion

Observing engagement and disengagement in team building is an opportunity to unravel the dynamics of real-world teamwork. The "fight," "flight," and "freeze" reactions illustrate how individuals respond to challenges under pressure. While temporary disengagement can be a strategy for regrouping and refocusing, beware of extended disengagement which poses risks to team performance and cohesion.

Amplio Games' game simulations create a safe space for team members to raise awareness of their instinctual reactions, fostering communication, empathy, and adaptation. By managing these behaviors, teams can harness the full potential of their members and navigate the complex terrain of teamwork, ultimately achieving their goals and objectives.