The influence and mitigation of bad apples on group dynamics and outcomes

Abstract

This research investigates the effect of exceptionally poor team members (identified as “bad apples”) on team dynamics and team performance. The negative impact of bad apples is shown to harm group dynamic factors of team effectiveness, relationships, cohesion, and increase conflict. In addition, we show that bad apples reduce team satisfaction and overall team grades. The use of a two-stage peer evaluation process is explored as a viable technique to minimize the negative impact of bad apples and appears to reduce the number of bad apples. We conclude with a discussion of applicable tools and techniques that can be utilized in a classroom to enhance the group experience and outcomes.

Keywords:

• Bad apple
• group dynamics
• peer evaluations
• teamwork

Notes

1 A bad apple spoiling the bunch is a scientific reality. The apple that is spoiled gives of ethylene which speeds up ripening and accelerates the spoiling of nearby fruits.