Role Ambiguity

A state in which an individual’s responsibilities, authority, performance expectations or decision rights within an organization or group are ill-defined, inconsistent or inadequately communicated, producing uncertainty about what behaviours are appropriate or required in a given role.

Uncertainty about the responsibilities, authority, or expected actions of an individual or unit within an organizational context, such that required tasks are omitted, duplicated, or performed inconsistently.

A condition in which expectations about the duties, status, authority and acceptable behaviour attached to a religious role (clergy, elder, volunteer, etc.) are unclear, inconsistent, or conflicting, generating stress, coordination breakdowns and poor task performance.