Liminal Spaces in Teams Research

In this essay, I highlight the liminality of teams research – where new discoveries can be made by embracing things “in-between.” One liminal space is that between individuals and groups – the patterns of intra- and interpersonal relationships that represent the microdynamics of teams. Another liminal space is that between past and future research philosophies, questions, and methods that will help us discover those patterns. Liminal spaces are transitional and challenging, but they are the very threshold of exciting change.

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Publication Details

Journal
Small Group Research
Published
2026-03-16
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/10464964261430682
Primary Topic
Team Dynamics and Performance
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Liminal Spaces in Teams Research

Amanda Ferguson
Small Group Research
Team Dynamics and Performance
article

Liminal Spaces in Teams Research

Amanda Ferguson
article en

Abstract

In this essay, I highlight the liminality of teams research – where new discoveries can be made by embracing things “in-between.” One liminal space is that between individuals and groups – the patterns of intra- and interpersonal relationships that represent the microdynamics of teams. Another liminal space is that between past and future research philosophies, questions, and methods that will help us discover those patterns. Liminal spaces are transitional and challenging, but they are the very threshold of exciting change.

Small Group Research
Northern Illinois University (US)
Openalex Percentile: Top 27%
Team Dynamics and Performance
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Liminal Spaces in Teams Research — Amanda Ferguson · Small Group Research (2026) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS