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When dealing with a large group of people there is a high chance that conflicts may arise, and it is important as a manager or leader to put in place mechanisms that will prevent the chances or this occurring, and when it does, it does not inhibit the group from performing. Test your conflict and cohesion in groups understanding through this test.
Questions and Answers
1.
. The members of a civic association's committee on community safety disagree on
whether to install more expensive street lighting throughout the development. What
type of conflict is the group experiencing?
A.
A. affective
B.
B. collaborative
C.
C. substantive
D.
D. competitive
E.
E. procedural
Correct Answer
C. C. substantive
Explanation The group is experiencing a substantive conflict because they have differing opinions on whether to install more expensive street lighting. This conflict is based on the substance or content of the issue, rather than personal feelings (affective), working together (collaborative), competition, or procedures (procedural).
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2.
The members of a civic association committee charged with addressing safety issues
in the community disagree over whether to begin by surveying residents about their
safety concerns or to start by consulting local law enforcement for safety
suggestions. What type of conflict is the group experiencing?
A.
A. affective
B.
B. collaborative
C.
C. substantive
D.
D. competitive
E.
E. procedural
Correct Answer
E. E. procedural
Explanation The conflict that the group is experiencing is procedural. This type of conflict arises when there is a disagreement about the process or procedure to be followed in making decisions or solving problems. In this case, the members disagree on whether to start by surveying residents or consulting local law enforcement. They are not in conflict over their emotions (affective), working together (collaborative), the substance of the issue (substantive), or competing for resources or power (competitive).
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3.
. Joe gets angry with Delores during a committee meeting because she interrupts his
remarks and suggests that his ideas are a waste of time. What type of conflict is
occurring in this situation?
A.
A. affective
B.
B. collaborative
C.
C. substantive
D.
D. competitive
E.
E. procedural
Correct Answer
A. A. affective
Explanation In this situation, Joe is getting angry with Delores because she interrupts his remarks and suggests that his ideas are a waste of time. This type of conflict is affective because it involves emotions and personal feelings. Joe's anger towards Delores is a result of her actions and the negative impact it has on his self-esteem and perceived value of his ideas. This conflict is not based on collaboration, substance, competition, or procedure, but rather on the affective aspect of their interaction.
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4.
Attribution Theory is useful in explaining the sources of group conflict. All of the
following answers are examples of how attributions can prompt anger among
group members EXCEPT
A.
A. What other members do seems abnormal.
B.
B. What other members do seems unfair.
C.
C. What other members do seems to constrain what I want to do.
D.
D. What other members do seems intended to harm me or others.
E.
E. What other members do seems to reflect member needs.
Correct Answer
E. E. What other members do seems to reflect member needs.
Explanation Attribution theory suggests that individuals tend to attribute the behavior of others to certain causes, which can lead to conflict within a group. In this case, options a, b, c, and d all involve attributions that can prompt anger among group members. These attributions include perceiving the behavior of others as abnormal, unfair, constraining, or intended to harm oneself or others. However, option e suggests that the behavior of other members reflects their own needs, which does not necessarily prompt anger among group members.
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5.
Which of the following statements characterizes constructive conflict?
A.
A. Members focus on the issues.
B.
B. Members' contributions are devalued.
C.
C. Members protect and defend their own ideas.
D.
D. Members avoid conflict.
E.
E. Members resist change and try to maintain traditional procedures.
Correct Answer
A. A. Members focus on the issues.
Explanation In constructive conflict, members focus on the issues at hand rather than personal attacks or devaluing each other's contributions. This means that they engage in a productive and respectful discussion, where they express their opinions and ideas while actively listening to others. By focusing on the issues, members can work towards finding a solution or compromise that benefits everyone involved. This approach helps to foster a positive and collaborative environment, where conflicts are seen as opportunities for growth and improvement rather than detrimental to the team or organization.
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6.
You can help promote constructive conflict by abiding by all of the following
principles EXCEPT
A.
A. Disagreement does not result in punishment.
B.
B. Members encourage tough competition among one another in order to make the best
decisions.
C.
C. Members will work with one another to achieve mutually satisfying resolution of
conflicts.
D.
D. Lower-status members are free to disagree with higher-status members.
E.
E. the group has an agreed-upon approach for conflict resolution and decision making.
Correct Answer
B. B. Members encourage tough competition among one another in order to make the best
decisions.
Explanation The correct answer is b. Members encourage tough competition among one another in order to make the best decisions. This statement contradicts the idea of promoting constructive conflict. Constructive conflict focuses on collaboration, cooperation, and finding mutually satisfying resolutions. Encouraging tough competition can lead to a win-lose mentality and hinder the ability to work together effectively.
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7.
Which of the following suggestions can help you apologize to a group when an
apology is appropriate?
A.
A. Identify member responsibility for problems with "you" statements.
B.
B. Clearly identify who is to blame for the problem.
C.
C. Disregard how others might feel as the result of your actions.
D.
D. Follow through on any promises to correct the situation.
E.
E. Plead for forgiveness because you have apologized.
Correct Answer
D. D. Follow through on any promises to correct the situation.
8.
. When a member is more concerned with his or her own goals than meeting the
needs of the group, which conflict style is the member using?
A.
A. accommodation
B.
B. collaboration
C.
C. competition
D.
D. avoidance
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
C. C. competition
Explanation When a member is more concerned with his or her own goals than meeting the needs of the group, they are using the conflict style of competition. This style involves a focus on winning and achieving personal goals, often at the expense of others. It is characterized by assertiveness, a desire to dominate, and a lack of concern for maintaining relationships or finding mutually beneficial solutions.
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9.
Which conflict style would be appropriate if the issue is very important to others
but is not very important to you; you realize that you are wrong or that you have
changed your mind; it is more important to preserve group harmony than resolve
the issue?
A.
A. accommodation
B.
B. collaboration
C.
C. competition
D.
D. avoidance
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
A. A. accommodation
Explanation Accommodation would be the appropriate conflict style in this situation because it involves prioritizing the needs and concerns of others over your own. By accommodating, you are willing to yield or give in to the preferences or opinions of others, even if you believe you are wrong or have changed your mind. This style promotes group harmony and focuses on maintaining positive relationships rather than resolving the issue.
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10.
Some club members want to increase membership dues by $7.00. Other club
members want to increase them by $3.00. They have reached an impasse on the
issue, so they decide to split the difference and raise the dues by $5.00. What type
of conflict style did the group use?
A.
A. accommodation
B.
B. collaboration
C.
C. competition
D.
D. avoidance
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
E. E. compromise
Explanation The group used the compromise conflict style because they reached a solution by splitting the difference between the two proposed options for increasing the membership dues. This means that neither side got exactly what they wanted, but they were able to find a middle ground that both parties could agree on.
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11.
Which conflict style has a high concern for group goals and a low concern for the
member's personal goals?
A.
A. accommodation
B.
B. collaboration
C.
C. competition
D.
D. avoidance
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
A. A. accommodation
Explanation Accommodation conflict style involves prioritizing the group's goals over personal goals. Individuals using this style are more willing to give in or yield to the desires and needs of others in order to maintain harmony within the group. They may sacrifice their own interests and preferences to ensure that the group's objectives are achieved. This style reflects a high concern for group goals and a low concern for personal goals.
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12.
. Family members disagree about where to go for a vacation this year. Some
members want a location where there will be a lot to do. Other members just want
to relax. They discuss many possible sites before deciding on a cruise. They agree
that a cruise offers opportunities for both relaxation and recreation. Which
approach to conflict did this family use?
A.
A. accommodation
B.
B. collaboration
C.
C. competition
D.
D. avoidance
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
B. B. collaboration
Explanation The family members used the approach of collaboration to resolve their conflict. They discussed their preferences and considered the desires of each member. By choosing a cruise, they found a solution that would provide opportunities for both relaxation and recreation, satisfying the needs of all family members. Collaboration involves working together to find a mutually beneficial solution, which is evident in this situation.
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13.
Nang tries to change the subject whenever group members argue. She also refuses
to comment on controversial issues. What conflict style does Nang use?
A.
A. accommodation
B.
B. collaboration
C.
C. competition
D.
D. avoidance
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
D. D. avoidance
Explanation Nang's conflict style is avoidance. This is evident from her attempts to change the subject whenever group members argue and her refusal to comment on controversial issues. By avoiding conflict and controversial topics, Nang is choosing not to engage in or address the conflict directly.
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14.
When a member gives in to others at the expense of his or her own goals, what
conflict style is the member using?
A.
A. collaboration
B.
B. compromise
C.
C. avoidance
D.
D. accommodation
E.
E. competition
Correct Answer
D. D. accommodation
Explanation When a member gives in to others at the expense of his or her own goals, they are using the conflict style of accommodation. This means that they prioritize maintaining harmony and satisfying the needs of others over their own objectives. They may choose to accommodate others' preferences or opinions in order to avoid conflict or to maintain relationships.
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15.
. When a member searches for new solutions that will achieve both the individual
goals of group members and the group goals, what conflict style is the member
using?
A.
A. competition
B.
B. avoidance
C.
C. collaboration
D.
D. accommodation
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
C. C. collaboration
Explanation When a member searches for new solutions that will achieve both the individual goals of group members and the group goals, they are using the conflict style of collaboration. Collaboration involves actively seeking mutually beneficial solutions and working together to find a resolution that satisfies everyone's needs and objectives. This approach encourages open communication, cooperation, and the integration of different perspectives to reach a consensus.
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16.
. When a member concedes some goals in order to achieve others, what conflict
style is the member using?
A.
A. compromise
B.
B. collaboration
C.
C. avoidance
D.
D. accommodation
E.
E. competition
Correct Answer
A. A. compromise
Explanation When a member concedes some goals in order to achieve others, they are using the conflict style of compromise. This means that they are willing to give up some of their own goals or desires in order to reach a middle ground or agreement with others. Compromise involves finding a solution that is acceptable to all parties involved by making concessions and finding a balance between different viewpoints or objectives.
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17.
. When a member attempts to change the topic, which conflict style is a member
using?
A.
A. accommodation
B.
B. avoidance
C.
C. collaboration
D.
D. competition
E.
E. compromise
Correct Answer
B. B. avoidance
Explanation When a member attempts to change the topic, they are using the conflict style of avoidance. This means that they are trying to avoid or evade the conflict altogether by diverting the conversation away from the current topic. They may do this to prevent further discussion or disagreement on the current issue, or to avoid addressing any potential conflicts or tensions that may arise from it.
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18.
. Which dialectic tension is represented in the 5 traditional conflict styles:
accommodation, avoidance, collaboration, competition, and compromise?
A.
A. reward ? punish
B.
B. reliance on emotions ? reliance on reasoning and logic
C.
C. homogeneous ? heterogeneous
D.
D. concern for personal goals ? Concern for group goals
E.
E. open system ? closed system
Correct Answer
D. D. concern for personal goals ? Concern for group goals
Explanation The 5 traditional conflict styles represent the dialectic tension between concern for personal goals and concern for group goals. Each style reflects a different balance between these two concerns. Accommodation and avoidance prioritize group goals over personal goals, while collaboration seeks to find a win-win solution that satisfies both personal and group goals. Competition prioritizes personal goals over group goals, and compromise aims to find a middle ground that partially satisfies both. This tension between personal and group goals is inherent in conflict situations and can influence the choice of conflict style.
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19.
. When face-to-face interaction is not convenient or possible, which of the following
communication technologies is best suited for groups dealing with conflict?
A.
A. audioconferences
B.
B. videoconferences
C.
C. bulletin boards
D.
D. email
E.
E. text messaging
Correct Answer
B. B. videoconferences
Explanation Videoconferences are the best communication technology for groups dealing with conflict when face-to-face interaction is not convenient or possible. This is because videoconferences allow participants to see each other's facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice, which can help to improve understanding and reduce misunderstandings. It also allows for real-time interaction and immediate feedback, which can be crucial in resolving conflicts effectively. Other communication technologies like audioconferences, bulletin boards, email, and text messaging do not provide the same level of visual cues and real-time interaction, making them less suitable for conflict resolution.
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20.
. Your textbook offers all of the following guidelines for making an effective
apology EXCEPT
A.
A. Take responsibility for your actions with "I" statements.
B.
B. Clearly identify the behavior that was wrong.
C.
C. Explain why your actions are justified.
D.
D. Acknowledge how others might feel.
E.
E. Express regret.
Correct Answer
C. C. Explain why your actions are justified.
Explanation The correct answer is c. Explain why your actions are justified. The textbook offers all of the other guidelines for making an effective apology, such as taking responsibility for your actions with "I" statements, clearly identifying the behavior that was wrong, acknowledging how others might feel, and expressing regret. However, explaining why your actions are justified is not a recommended guideline for making an effective apology. Justifying your actions may come across as defensive or dismissive of the other person's feelings.
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21.
. What do the 4Rs stand for in the 4Rs Method of Analyzing a Conflict?
A.
A. React, Reply, Reason, Reprimand
B.
B. Recognize, Reflect, Reconsider, Relate
C.
C. Reasons, Reactions, Results, Resolution
D.
D. Resources, Repetitions, Readiness, and Resolution
E.
E. Recognize, Reflect, Reconsider, Reject
Correct Answer
C. C. Reasons, Reactions, Results, Resolution
Explanation The 4Rs in the 4Rs Method of Analyzing a Conflict stand for Reasons, Reactions, Results, and Resolution. This method involves analyzing the reasons behind the conflict, the reactions of the parties involved, the results or consequences of the conflict, and finding a resolution or solution to the conflict. By examining these four aspects, a deeper understanding of the conflict can be gained and effective strategies for resolution can be developed.
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22.
. Which of the following is NOT part of the 4R method of Conflict Management?
A.
A. Reasons
B.
B. Reactions
C.
C. Results
D.
D. Reinterpretation
E.
E. Resolution
Correct Answer
D. D. Reinterpretation
Explanation The 4R method of Conflict Management includes identifying the Reasons for the conflict, understanding the Reactions of the parties involved, working towards a Resolution, and analyzing the Results of the conflict resolution process. Reinterpretation is not part of this method as it does not involve reevaluating or interpreting the conflict in a different way.
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23.
. If you assume that group members mean well and you feel free to express your
feelings and ideas to others, you are on your way to dealing with conflict using
A.
A. the 4Rs Method.
B.
B. the A-E-I-O-U Model.
C.
C. negotiation.
D.
D. mediation.
E.
E. arbitration.
Correct Answer
B. B. the A-E-I-O-U Model.
Explanation Assuming that group members mean well and feeling free to express feelings and ideas to others indicates a willingness to engage in open and honest communication. The A-E-I-O-U Model focuses on these principles, encouraging individuals to Acknowledge their emotions, Express their thoughts and feelings, Identify the needs and interests of all parties involved, Openly discuss potential solutions, and Understand and respect different perspectives. This approach promotes effective conflict resolution by fostering understanding, empathy, and collaboration among group members.
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24.
. Which method of conflict resolution employs the services of an impartial third
party for the purpose of guiding, coaching, and encouraging the disputants toward
agreement?
A.
A. arbitration
B.
B. mediation
C.
C. negotiation
D.
D. the 4Rs Method
E.
E. the A-E-I-O-U Model
Correct Answer
B. B. mediation
Explanation Mediation is a method of conflict resolution that involves the intervention of an impartial third party to help guide and facilitate the disputing parties towards reaching a mutually agreeable solution. The mediator acts as a coach and encourages open communication, understanding, and compromise between the parties involved. Unlike arbitration where a third party makes a final decision, mediation focuses on facilitating a voluntary agreement between the disputants.
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25.
. Which of the following conflict management methods is expressed as "We should
express our concerns about the conflict and suggest a solution"?
A.
A. arbitration
B.
B. mediation
C.
C. negotiation
D.
D. the 4Rs Method
E.
E. the A-E-I-O-U Model
Correct Answer
E. E. the A-E-I-O-U Model
Explanation The A-E-I-O-U Model is a conflict management method that emphasizes expressing concerns about the conflict and suggesting a solution. This method encourages open communication and problem-solving to address and resolve conflicts. It involves actively listening to each party's perspective, empathizing with their concerns, identifying common interests, and finding a mutually beneficial solution.
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26.
. Mediation experts Stephen Littlejohn and Kathy Domenici suggest the following
strategies for resolving conflict constructively EXCEPT
A.
A. Show strength and conviction by supporting your own position.
B.
B. Speak to be understood rather than win.
C.
C. Focus on your own perspective rather than criticizing others' behavior.
D.
D. Explore ideas in new ways.
E.
E. Recognize that there are many perspectives rather than polarizing a dispute into only 2 points of view.
Correct Answer
A. A. Show strength and conviction by supporting your own position.
Explanation The correct answer is a. Show strength and conviction by supporting your own position. This answer is not suggested by mediation experts Stephen Littlejohn and Kathy Domenici as a strategy for resolving conflict constructively. Instead, they emphasize the importance of speaking to be understood rather than win, focusing on one's own perspective rather than criticizing others' behavior, exploring ideas in new ways, and recognizing that there are many perspectives rather than polarizing a dispute into only 2 points of view.
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27.
. Which of the following elements in the Harvard Negotiation Project's principled
negotiation process asks a group to seek fair standards for resolving a conflict or
choosing an option?
A.
A. people
B.
B. interests
C.
C. options
D.
D. criteria
E.
E. goals
Correct Answer
D. D. criteria
Explanation The element in the Harvard Negotiation Project's principled negotiation process that asks a group to seek fair standards for resolving a conflict or choosing an option is "criteria." This means that the group should consider objective and impartial criteria when making decisions, rather than relying solely on personal preferences or power dynamics. By using fair criteria, the group can ensure a more equitable and mutually beneficial outcome.
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28.
. All of the following behaviors are more characteristic of the ways in which women
respond to conflict EXCEPT
A.
A. Women are more likely to leave a group that experiences continuous conflict.
B.
B. Women are more likely to focus on substantive issues than men.
C.
C. Women are more likely to address conflict privately rather than in front of the
entire group.
D.
D. Women tend to cooperate more than men under ideal conditions.
E.
E. Women are more likely to avoid conflict than men are.
Correct Answer
C. C. Women are more likely to address conflict privately rather than in front of the
entire group.
Explanation The correct answer is c. Women are more likely to address conflict privately rather than in front of the entire group. This statement contradicts the typical behavior of women in responding to conflict. Women are generally known to address conflict in a more private manner, preferring one-on-one conversations rather than addressing the entire group. The other options are all behaviors that are more characteristic of the ways in which women respond to conflict.
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29.
When helping group members from collectivist cultures maintain and save "face,"
you should keep in mind all of the following perspectives about conflict and "face"
EXCEPT
A.
A. The need to save "face" during a conflict derives from the personal relationships
among members.
B.
B. Conflict resolution requires that "face" issues be mutually managed before
discussing other issues.
C.
C. In individualistic cultures, "saving face" is more important than winning an
argument.
D.
D. Conflict resolution succeeds when group members save "face" and also claim they
have "won."
E.
E. Cultures that place a great deal of value on "saving face" discourage personal
attacks.
Correct Answer
C. C. In individualistic cultures, "saving face" is more important than winning an
argument.
30.
. Which of the following statements is characteristic of a cohesive group?
A.
A. Members interact with each other less.
B.
B. Members make a lot of negative statements about the group.
C.
C. Members want to conform to group expectations.
D.
D. The group lacks creativity.
E.
E. none of the above
Correct Answer
C. C. Members want to conform to group expectations.
Explanation A cohesive group is characterized by members who want to conform to group expectations. This means that they are willing to follow the norms, rules, and values of the group in order to maintain harmony and unity. This desire to conform indicates a sense of belonging and commitment to the group, which fosters cooperation and collaboration among members. It also suggests that there is a shared sense of purpose and identity within the group, leading to a stronger bond and higher levels of trust and communication.
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31.
. As leader of her group, Mira frequently reminds members that their combined
contributions are essential to group success. Which strategy for developing group
cohesiveness is Mira using?
A.
A. establishing a group identify
B.
B. establishing group traditions
C.
C. respecting group members
D.
D. emphasizing teamwork
E.
E. recognizing and rewarding contributions
Correct Answer
D. D. empHasizing teamwork
Explanation Mira is using the strategy of emphasizing teamwork to develop group cohesiveness. By reminding members that their combined contributions are essential to group success, Mira is highlighting the importance of working together and collaborating as a team. This strategy helps to foster a sense of unity and cooperation among group members, ultimately strengthening the bond and cohesiveness within the group.
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32.
. Which symptom of groupthink is expressed when one group member confronts
another by saying "Why aren't you in favor of this? You're the only one who's
against it. Give it up!"?
A.
A. rationalization
B.
B. self-censorship
C.
C. mindguarding
D.
D. pressure on dissent
E.
E. illusion of invulnerability
Correct Answer
D. D. pressure on dissent
Explanation The correct answer is d. pressure on dissent. This symptom of groupthink is expressed when one group member confronts another by pressuring them to conform to the majority opinion and discouraging them from expressing their dissenting views. The member is attempting to silence the dissenting individual by making them feel isolated and unsupported in their opposition to the group's decision. This tactic is used to maintain the illusion of unanimity within the group and discourage any further dissent.
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33.
. Which symptom of groupthink is expressed when a group member says "Of
course, we're right. We have a perfect safety record, have done this many times,
and nothing's gone wrong"?
A.
A. morality
B.
B. stereotyping outsiders
C.
C. mindguarding
D.
D. illusion of unanimity
E.
E. illusions of invulnerability
Correct Answer
E. E. illusions of invulnerability
Explanation This symptom of groupthink is expressed when a group member displays a sense of invulnerability and believes that the group is incapable of making mistakes or facing negative consequences. The individual's statement about the group's perfect safety record and past successes demonstrates a belief in their own invincibility and a disregard for potential risks or failures. This mindset can lead to a lack of critical thinking and a failure to consider alternative viewpoints or potential dangers.
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34.
. All of the following answers are characteristic of groupthink EXCEPT
A.
A. overconfidence.
B.
B. discounting of warnings.
C.
C. stereotyping of outsiders.
D.
D. mindguarding.
E.
E. critically evaluating options.
Correct Answer
E. E. critically evaluating options.
Explanation Groupthink is a phenomenon where a group of people prioritize harmony and conformity over critical thinking and individual opinions. It is characterized by overconfidence, discounting of warnings, stereotyping of outsiders, and mindguarding. However, critically evaluating options is not a characteristic of groupthink because groupthink discourages individuals from questioning or challenging the group's decisions and ideas.
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35.
. All of the following methods are appropriate for minimizing the potential for
groupthink EXCEPT
A.
A. Ask each member to serve in the role of critical evaluator.
B.
B. If possible, have more than one group work on the same problem independently.
C.
C. Avoid asking questions and do not demand justifications from others.
D.
D. Discuss the potential negative consequences of any decision or action.
E.
E. Before finalizing the decision, give members a second chance to express doubts.
Correct Answer
C. C. Avoid asking questions and do not demand justifications from others.
Explanation Groupthink is a phenomenon where a group of people make decisions without considering alternative viewpoints or critically evaluating their options. Asking each member to serve as a critical evaluator, having multiple groups work on the same problem independently, discussing potential negative consequences, and giving members a second chance to express doubts are all methods that help minimize groupthink. However, avoiding asking questions and not demanding justifications from others can contribute to groupthink by discouraging critical thinking and alternative perspectives.
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