Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Practice Exam

In the context of team dynamics, what does psychological safety refer to?

1. Ability to criticize team members

2. Freedom to express thoughts without fear

3. Individual performance over team success

4. Strict adherence to procedures

The correct answer is: Freedom to express thoughts without fear

Psychological safety refers to the environment in which team members feel safe to express their thoughts, ideas, and concerns without fear of negative consequences. This term emphasizes the importance of a supportive atmosphere where individuals can share their opinions openly, make mistakes, and ask questions. In such an environment, team members are more willing to engage in constructive discussions, take risks, and collaborate effectively, which ultimately enhances team performance and innovation. The focus of psychological safety is on promoting open communication and fostering trust, enabling a culture where individuals can voice differing perspectives and contribute authentically. This is crucial in high-functioning teams, as it leads to deeper engagement and a sense of belonging among team members, allowing the team to thrive collectively. Other options reflect concepts that do not align with the notion of psychological safety. For instance, the ability to criticize team members may create an environment of fear or defensiveness, which is contrary to fostering open dialogue. Prioritizing individual performance over team success undermines collaboration and can lead to silos within the team. Strict adherence to procedures can stifle creativity and discourage team members from speaking up, as it may limit their willingness to propose new ideas or challenge the status quo. Thus, the essence of psychological safety is best captured by the freedom