Fostering positive team dynamics: Eliminating venting, gossip, and…

Presented by Marie Holowaychuk, DVM, Dipl. ACVECC

Continuing education questionnaire

CE credit: 1

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Name

First name *

Last name *

License number *

Province where you practise *

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Questions

1. True or False. Studies show that venting alone (intrapersonal venting) can increase signs of aggression, whereas venting with another person (interpersonal venting) can help calm emotions. *

True

False

2. Which of the following statements best describes co-rumination? *

Talking about problems to actively find solutions and prevent them from recurring

Talking excessively about problems in a passive way, often amplifying stress and depressive symptoms

Briefly sharing challenges to gain perspective without dwelling on them

Focusing only on positive experiences to avoid stress

3. What is an example of co-reflection, an active approach to venting? *

“I just wish clients were nicer; it’s so frustrating.”

“I just want work to slow down; I’m overwhelmed.”

“I wonder how we can better communicate with clients to reduce their anxiety.”

“I worry about another pandemic wave; nothing ever changes.”

4. Which of the following statements about gossip in human medical training is supported by research? *

Gossip is always negative and should be completely eliminated

Gossip only occurs among peers and has no impact across hierarchical levels

Gossip can influence reputations, convey informal lessons, and either build or erode trust depending on how it’s managed

Gossip is unrelated to stress levels or burnout in clinical programs

5. True or False. Increasing perceived hierarchy decreases psychological safety and makes residents less likely to report errors, whereas inclusive leadership can improve reporting. *

True

False

6. Which of the following is a common reason why rumours spread in organizations? *

To provide verified and official information to colleagues

To make sense of uncertainty, feel included, or express concerns when safe channels aren’t available

To formally document changes in policies or procedures

To ensure that leadership remains fully transparent

7. What is a potential risk of using sarcasm at work? *

Enhances trust and clarity in all situations

Reduces misunderstandings

Increases tension, misunderstandings, or conflict if misinterpreted

Strengthens team bonding

8. If a workplace conversation drifts into gossip, the most constructive action is: *

Join in to stay “in the know”

Roll your eyes at damaging misinformation you know to be untrue

Ignore it completely without redirecting

Politely change the topic to something positive

9. Which of the following is considered a key factor in fostering healthy team communication? *

Avoiding difficult conversations entirely

Psychological safety

Competing to be heard first

Focusing only on tasks, not relationships

10. Which of the following is an example of effective non-violent (compassionate) communication? *

“Please don’t make mistakes with the patient charts.”

“I need help in the back; finish these tasks immediately.”

“I’m feeling overwhelmed and worried about a patient—could you assist me with the post-op evaluations?”

“What did I do to make you upset?”