Date of Award

8-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

College/School

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Department/Program

Psychology

Thesis Sponsor/Dissertation Chair/Project Chair

Valerie Sessa

Committee Member

Michael Bixter

Committee Member

Robert Horn

Abstract

A multiteam system (MTS) is a unique and complex organizational form consisting of two or more distinct component teams which interact interdependently in pursuit of a shared goal. In many contexts, such as emergency response teams military operations units, disaster relief task forces, and collaborative scientific efforts, MTSs are easily and intuitively identifiable as distinct entities. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding boundary conditions of MTSs, and classification of an organizational form as an MTS in novel contexts. This study addresses that gap by examining whether and how sports teams can be conceptualized as MTSs. Using a mixed methods approach, this study uses interviews from seven NCAA Division II and III coaches and athlete surveys to determine which sports, if any, contain (a) distinct component teams that, (b) interact interdependently, (c) in pursuit of a goal hierarchy. Findings reveal meaningful variability across sports, and a spectrum of MTS classification is elucidated, with four sports failing to meet the criteria for MTS classification, and three sports exhibiting the necessary characteristics for classification. These findings have important implications for both the MTS and sport psychology bodies of literature, in addition to being one of the first studies examining their intersection. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed.

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