Role Ambiguity and Role Conflict Within Interdependent Teams

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine perceptions of role ambiguity and role conflict within interdependent sport teams from a multidimensional perspective. Role ambiguity and role conflict corresponding to offensive and defensive functions were assessed in relation to role-related efficacy beliefs as well as starting status. Results of a principal components analysis supported the multidimensionality of role ambiguity but indicated that role conflict was unidimensional with regard to offensive and defensive role functions. Consistent with self-efficacy theory (discussed by Bandura in 1997), role ambiguity was negatively associated with role-related efficacy beliefs. Furthermore, consistent with theorizing by Kahn, Wolfe, Quinn, Snoek, and Rosenthal in 1964, a negative relationship between role conflict and role-related efficacy was mediated by role ambiguity. Nonstarters reported greater role ambiguity than starters; however, no differences were observed with regard to role conflict. The findings have implications for the future study of role ambiguity as a multidimensional construct and the relationship between role ambiguity and performance.