Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 17, 2025

The HoneyComb Paradigm for Research on Collective Human Behavior
Published on: January 19, 2019
Shared goals, communication and mutual respect in multicultural staff teams: A relational coordination perspective
Laila Tingvold1, Mai C Munkejord2
1Centre for Care Research East, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Gjøvik, Norway.
Aim:
Task interdependence among staff in nursing homes is high, and staff teams are typically composed of employees from different cultural backgrounds with varying levels of skills and qualifications. By applying relational coordination theory as an analytic lens, we investigated how communication and cooperation challenges are experienced and dealt with.
Design:
This is a qualitative study.
Method:
In-dept interviews with 31 members of staff in two nursing homes and thematic analysis of the material.
Results:
The study identified challenges in direct communication and collaboration difficulties related to understanding how to use professional discretion in daily care practices in both nursing homes. The management in one of the two nursing homes arranged frequent meetings to share knowledge about the residents, their care status and introduced initiatives to build competence among all members of staff, including substitute and temporary staff. This contributed to ensuring shared goals and mutual respect at the workplace.
Related Concept Videos
Robbers Cave
Close Relationships and Culture
Levels of Communication II: Organizational, Public, and Group Dynamics
Relationship Growth
Nurses' Legal Responsibilities III
Cultivating a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among nurses transcends mere enhancement...
Communication

