Question 1

Sandra and Jennifer have been roommates for several years and both love to entertain.When they want to plan a special evening for friends,Sandra plans the menu,visits several gourmet markets,and spends the afternoon happily preparing an exquisite feast.Jennifer,on the other hand,takes care of the invitations,cleans the apartment,and selects the entertainment for the evening.In regard to entertaining,this relationship would be characterized as being

Accepted Answer

The answer of Sandra and Jennifer have been roommates for...

Question 2

Argumentative episodes that focused on a given issue that occur at least twice are called

Accepted Answer

Serial arguments are repeated conflicts or arguments that focus on the same issue or topic. These arguments can occur between individuals, groups, or even nations, and they usually arise when there is a fundamental disagreement about how to handle a particular situation or problem. Serial arguments can be frustrating and difficult to resolve, but they may also provide an opportunity for individuals or groups to work through their differences and find a solution to the underlying issue.

Question 3

Justin's girlfriend,Malika,is angry with him for spending so much time with his friends.When she tried to discuss it with him,he changed the subject and began talking about his new boss.What conflict strategy did Justin use?

Accepted Answer

Justin used a distracting conflict strategy by changing the subject and talking about his new boss instead of addressing Malika's concerns about his time spent with friends.

Question 4

Justin had a problem with his roommate's late night habit of watching TV when Justin was trying to sleep.In discussing the problem,Justin told his roommate that he could either stop watching TV late at night or he could move out.How would you describe Justin's conflict management style?

Accepted Answer

Justin's conflict management style is confrontational because he gave his roommate an ultimatum and presented him with only two options. He did not attempt to find a compromise or negotiate a solution that would work for both parties.

Question 5

Olga is discussing her work schedule with her supervisor.She is not happy with her assignment and tells her supervisor,"You assign the best training dates to the people in your work group." Based on Olga's comment,what does your book recommend so she could be more effective at managing this conflict?

Accepted Answer

Using descriptive language means taking ownership of the statements made and expressing one's feelings and thoughts clearly. This approach can help Olga communicate effectively with her supervisor and resolve potential conflicts.

Question 6

Karla and David are having a conflict over who should wash the dishes.Karla says to David,"You're just like your brother.You're lazy and don't care about anyone except for yourself.Your entire family is worthless!" This is an example of which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Karla's statement is attacking and insulting, which makes it an example of aggressive communication.

Question 7

Which of the following is an appropriate example of 'owning' your feelings by using an "I" message?

Accepted Answer

Option B uses an "I" message to express how the speaker feels without blaming or accusing the other person. It clearly states the speaker's emotions and their reason for feeling that way in a non-confrontational manner. The others do not use an "I" message and are accusatory or insulting.

Question 8

An intractable conflict is also known as which of the following?

Accepted Answer

An intractable conflict refers to a conflict that is not easily resolved and has become deeply ingrained within the parties involved. It is often characterized by intense hostility and polarization, making traditional resolution methods ineffective.

Question 9

A cooperative approach to conflict is one in which we _____.

Accepted Answer

A cooperative approach to conflict involves viewing the conflict as a problem to be solved, rather than focusing on winning or placating the other person. This approach emphasizes open and honest communication, active listening, and working together to find mutually beneficial solutions. Changing the topic to avoid conflict does not address the underlying issues and can lead to unresolved tension in the relationship.

Question 10

The ability to influence another in the direction we desire is _____.

Accepted Answer

Interpersonal power refers to the ability to influence or control the behavior of others. It is an important aspect of interpersonal communication because it allows individuals to achieve their goals, assert themselves, and negotiate outcomes in various relationships. Other options are not related to the concept of interpersonal power.

Question 11

Which of the following is the most notable contributing factor to a destructive conflict?

Accepted Answer

While all of the options can contribute to a destructive conflict, lack of flexibility is often the root cause of a conflict escalating to a destructive level. When parties are unwilling to consider alternative solutions or compromise, the conflict can become entrenched and more difficult to resolve. Flexibility is essential for reaching a mutually beneficial resolution.

Question 12

Placating,distracting,and computing responses are types of what conflict style?

Accepted Answer

Placating, distracting, and computing responses are all nonconfrontational conflict styles, which prioritize avoiding conflict and maintaining social harmony over addressing the issue at hand. While these responses may offer temporary relief, they do not effectively solve the underlying conflict and may lead to resentment or further escalation in the future.

Question 13

In managing your emotions,all of the following guidelines are helpful EXCEPT

Accepted Answer

Discussing only the disadvantages of possible solutions is not helpful in managing emotions. It is important to also consider the advantages and weigh them against the disadvantages in order to make an informed decision. The other three options (selecting an acceptable time and place, monitoring nonverbal behavior, and using self-talk) are all helpful in managing emotions.

Question 14

Peter and Paul have discussions that typically sound like this: "Where do we go for dinner?" "I don't know;where would you like to go?" "I don't care,you decide." "Anything you like is fine with me." etc.Based on this example their relationship would be characterized as being

Accepted Answer

The discussions between Peter and Paul show a symmetrical relationship, in which both individuals show equal participation and responsibility in making decisions or coming to a consensus.

Question 15

In order to manage your emotions in a conflict situation,it would be helpful to do which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Using self-talk to calm your emotions can help you to approach the situation in a more rational and calm manner. Confronting the other person immediately and not preparing what you will say may lead to further escalation of the conflict. Standing over the other person may be perceived as intimidating and aggressive.

Question 16

People who use blame as a strategy for winning a conflict are using which conflict style?

Accepted Answer

Blaming is a confrontational conflict style in which one party accuses the other of wrongdoing or causing the issue at hand.

Question 17

This type of conflict occurs when conflict gets personal such that people attack each other's self-esteem.

Accepted Answer

Ego conflict occurs when people attack each other's self-esteem, leading to personal attacks and insults. It is a type of conflict that is rooted in individual differences and personalities. Pseudoconflict refers to a misunderstanding that arises due to miscommunication or lack of information, while simple conflict involves a disagreement over resources or values, and serial conflict involves recurring conflict over time on the same issue.

Question 18

The suggestion that you resist solutions to manage the conflict until both you and the other person fully understand the problem and each other's goals is part of _____.

Accepted Answer

The suggestion to fully understand the problem and goals before coming up with solutions pertains to managing the problem in a conflict situation.

Question 19

This type of conflict stems from differences in ideas,definitions,perceptions,or goals.

Accepted Answer

Simple conflict arises when there are differences in ideas, definitions, perceptions, or goals among individuals or groups.

Question 20

Which of the following is a recommendation of Wilmot and Hocker on how to build a constructive conflict?

Accepted Answer

According to Wilmot and Hocker, focusing on the relationship rather than the individual is a key recommendation for building a constructive conflict. This means valuing the relationship with the other person more than winning the argument, and acknowledging the other person's perspective and feelings. Holding a firm position, protecting oneself, and being willing to lose for the sake of others are not recommended as strategies for building constructive conflict.

Quiz 8: Enhancing Relationships