Psychological Safety

What is Psychological Safety?

Psychological Safety

Psychological safety is a group's shared feeling that they can express themself freely without the fear of negative consequences.

Definition

Daniel Wirtz

Co-Founder, Facilitator School

Last updated

June 14, 2024

Psychological safety enables team members to take risks without worrying about negative consequences to self-image, status, or career. When you feel safe in a group, you're more likely to share your ideas, ask questions, and express concerns—critical behaviors for innovative and effective teams.

This shared belief not only cultivates a more open and expressive atmosphere but also supports a culture where mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn rather than reasons for punishment. This openness is crucial for continuous improvement and helps in identifying issues before they become significant problems that can drastically impact a project or a team dynamic.

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Psychological Safety

Why is psychological safety important for meeting success?

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Psychological safety is fundamental for successful meetings because it enables participants to express themselves openly and contribute without fear. This atmosphere fosters diverse ideas and solutions, leading to more effective and productive meetings. Moreover, when meeting participants feel safe, they are more likely to engage in constructive conflict and innovation, essential for dynamic and successful team interactions.

What does a lack of psychological safety look like?

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A lack of psychological safety can manifest as withheld information, excessive caution in conversation, and a noticeable lack of innovation during meetings. Participants may avoid risk-taking due to fear of consequences, leading to less creativity and lower overall team performance. Indicators include high levels of stress, visible discomfort during interactions, and minimal engagement from team members.

How can you improve psychological safety in a meeting?

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Improving psychological safety in a meeting involves creating an environment that respects and encourages open communication and shared risk-taking. Start by setting clear ground rules for respectful communication and encouraging all participants to contribute. Acknowledging and appreciating diverse viewpoints and addressing any behaviors that undermine a safe atmosphere can also significantly enhance psychological safety.

Can you measure psychological safety at work?

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Yes, psychological safety can be measured by observing team interactions, soliciting feedback through surveys, and noting the frequency and nature of innovative ideas and problem-solving discussions during meetings. Tools and frameworks, such as employee engagement surveys, can also help assess levels of comfort and openness within the workplace.

What are the four stages of psychological safety?

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The four stages of psychological safety are:

Inclusion safety: feeling accepted.
Learner safety: feeling safe to ask questions and make mistakes.
Contributor safety: feeling safe to use one's skills.
Challenger safety: feeling free to challenge the status quo without fear of repercussions.