APU Students Gain New Insights into Teamwork and Growth

The School of Psychology (SoP) at APU hosted an enriching and thought-provoking workshop titled “Discovering Yourself: Personality, Strengths, and Growth in Group Work” on 16 October 2025.

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Designed to deepen students’ understanding of personality and interpersonal dynamics, the session was led by Dr Faridhil Athrash Bin Sallehan, CEO of Atma Psychology & Training Centre, and organised by SoP lecturers, Ms Subashini Ganesan and Ms Amirah Husna Mohamad Hata Abdullah. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology student, Chua Khai Tim, supported the event as the emcee. 

The workshop offered participants an opportunity to explore the ways in which individual personality styles shape group interactions. Dr Faridhil guided attendees through a series of reflective discussions and hands-on activities, helping them identify their strengths, blind spots, and communication tendencies. He also provided practical strategies on navigating different group dynamics, including managing dominant, passive, or uncooperative team members in constructive and empathetic ways. 

A key highlight of the session was the introduction of the Dark Triad model, which helped students recognise and analyse toxic behavioural patterns. Through case-based discussions and role-play exercises, they practised addressing unhealthy communication styles and managing conflict thoughtfully.

These activities encouraged students to consider how psychological concepts apply in real-world teamwork scenarios, enabling them to better understand the complexities of group behaviour.

Towards the end of the workshop, participants developed personalised boundary-setting action plans, allowing them to reflect on their emotional growth and create sustainable approaches to handling group work challenges. The interactive and reflective format of the session offered a balanced blend of theory and practical application, creating a supportive learning environment that resonated positively with attendees.

Students shared that the workshop not only enriched their understanding of teamwork but also enhanced their self-awareness. Many noted that they had gained clearer insights into their own personality types and learned how to adapt their communication styles for more effective collaboration. Others highlighted the importance of setting healthy boundaries and approaching conflicts constructively—skills that are increasingly essential in both academic and professional contexts.

Feedback from participants affirmed the session’s value, praising the engaging delivery and its relevance to real-life group situations. The workshop ultimately strengthened students’ appreciation of personality, behaviour, and emotional maturity, underscoring APU’s commitment to empowering learners with the interpersonal skills needed to thrive in diverse team environments.