Question 1

When the harmony of the group is seen as more important than new ideas and changing previous assumptions, that group is displaying __________.
A) norming
B) groupthink
C) commitment
D) high ethical standards

Accepted Answer

The term "groupthink" refers to a phenomenon where the desire for conformity and consensus within a group leads to a narrowing of viewpoints and a reluctance to challenge assumptions. This can lead to a lack of creativity and critical thinking, and can result in poor decision-making. In this scenario, the emphasis on maintaining harmony over new ideas suggests that the group may be experiencing groupthink.

Question 2

What is the general goal of most problem-solving groups?
A) to fill the task and maintenance needs of members
B) to reach consensus on a decision or solution
C) to constructively manage group conflict
D) to implement the decision chosen by the leader

Accepted Answer

The general goal of most problem-solving groups is to reach consensus on a decision or solution. This involves the group members sharing their perspectives, ideas, and possible solutions to the problem at hand, and then collaborating to come to an agreement on the best course of action. This approach ensures that all perspectives are heard and considered, and helps to build buy-in and support for the chosen solution.

Question 3

As a high-level manager in his firm, Kenneth keeps tight control over his department by setting policy and making all decisions for his group. Everyone who works for Kenneth knows what to expect: he will specify exactly what he wants them to do and when he expects it done. In this setting, Kenneth can be described as a(n) __________ leader.
A) autocratic
B) democratic
C) transformational
D) laissez-faire

Accepted Answer

Kenneth's behavior is indicative of an autocratic leadership style, where the leader makes all decisions and controls all aspects of the workplace. There is no indication that he involves his employees in the decision-making process or encourages collaboration and creativity.

Question 4

During discussions in a small group working on solving campus security problems, Huan always finds fault with everyone else's ideas but doesn't seem to contribute many of his own. Huan's behavior role can probably be labeled as __________.
A) task-oriented
B) self-centered
C) maintenance-oriented
D) leadership

Accepted Answer

Huan's behavior is self-centered as he is more focused on criticizing others rather than contributing his own ideas.

Question 5

An ethical perspective for members to consider is the collectivistic nature of group interactions. This means that __________.
A) the success of the group is more important than any one individual
B) individual members' best interests must take priority over group goals
C) it is suggested that the group ignore unpopular or minority views
D) it is never acceptable to withhold information or opinions from the group

Accepted Answer

A collectivistic perspective emphasizes the importance of the group as a whole rather than any one individual. This means that the success and well-being of the group should take priority over the interests of individual members. This perspective values cooperation, collaboration, and interdependence among members, and encourages individuals to work together towards shared goals. Therefore, A is the correct answer. B, C, and D are all opposite to the idea of collectivism.

Question 6

Adam and Galanes suggest that individuals can and should behave ethically during conflict by __________.
A) avoiding rhetorical sensitivity
B) criticizing the person and not the idea
C) ignoring and avoiding disagreements
D) expressing disagreements openly and honestly

Accepted Answer

Adam and Galanes suggest that individuals should behave ethically during conflict by expressing disagreements openly and honestly. They assert that avoiding or ignoring disagreements can lead to resentment and a breakdown in relationships, while criticizing the person instead of the idea can be hurtful and nonproductive. Using rhetorical sensitivity, which involves considering the other person's perspective and feelings when expressing disagreement, can also help maintain ethical behavior during conflict.

Question 7

Amita dreaded the group project in her marketing class, because one group member spent all his time texting during their work sessions. Amita knew that she and the other three group members would have to work extra hard to get a good grade. What disadvantage of group work does this describe?
A) groupthink
B) social loafing
C) grouphate
D) pressure to fail

Accepted Answer

This describes the disadvantage of social loafing, where one member of the group does not contribute equally to the task, causing the others to have to work harder to compensate. None of the other options seem to fit the scenario given.

Question 8

Jeannie's work team needs to resolve the holiday scheduling issue. Everyone wants the same days off, but the department must be staffed at all times. Jeannie wants to be fair, but a solution must be found quickly. She suggests they apply Dewey's reflective thinking steps because __________.
A) it is a proven way to resolve any interpersonal conflicts within the group
B) it guarantees the group leader has greater influence than other members
C) it generates multiple solutions in a very short amount of time
D) it provides a logical and rational way of generating solutions

Accepted Answer

Dewey's reflective thinking steps provide a logical and rational way of generating solutions, which is necessary in this situation where there is a need to find a fair and effective solution in a timely manner. This process encourages the group to consider multiple solutions and think critically about each before making a decision.

Question 9

According to functional theory, which task requirement does not need to be met for group members to successfully complete their goal?
A) Members understand the problem being discussed.
B) Members know the minimum criteria for a successful solution
C) Members identify which solutions will most benefit them.
D) Members select the best solution

Accepted Answer

According to functional theory, groups can successfully complete their goals even if members do not identify which solutions will most benefit them. The other three task requirements (understanding the problem, knowing minimum criteria, and selecting the best solution) are necessary for successful completion of the goal.

Question 10

Potential differences between male and female leadership styles were found in an extensive review of research by Alice Eagly and Blair Johnson. The differences appeared in the dimensions of __________ and in participative versus directive leadership styles.
A) effectiveness versus ineffectiveness
B) task versus maintenance behaviors
C) conflict escalation versus conflict management
D) rapid versus slow task accomplishment

Accepted Answer

The review found differences in the dimensions of task versus maintenance behaviors, with female leaders emphasizing maintenance behaviors more than male leaders. The review also found differences in participative versus directive leadership styles, with female leaders tending to use more participative styles than male leaders. The other answer choices do not accurately reflect the differences found in the review.

Question 11

One of the greatest weaknesses of beginning group participants is their tendency to __________.
A) arrive late at meetings
B) focus strictly on task roles
C) arrive at meetings unprepared
D) contribute opinions without being asked

Accepted Answer

When beginning group participants arrive at meetings unprepared, it slows down the productivity of the group and can cause frustration among other members. It is important for all members to come prepared and ready to contribute to the group's goals. A, B, and D are also weaknesses, but not as significant as arriving unprepared.

Question 12

Research indicates that leaders with a democratic style tend to produce more __________ among group members.
A) hostility and aggression
B) originality and individuality
C) lethargy and task-avoidance
D) conflict and dissension

Accepted Answer

Research has shown that leaders who adopt a democratic style of leadership, which involves allowing group members to participate in decision-making and providing support and guidance, tend to promote creativity, encourage individuality, and generate more original solutions than authoritarian or laissez-faire leaders. This is because a democratic style empowers group members to express their opinions, share their knowledge and experiences, and collaborate with others, which leads to a more engaged and motivated team. Democratic leaders value the perspectives and contributions of all members, which in turn fosters a sense of ownership and commitment to the group's goals.

Question 13

Several women on campus decided to form a late-night "buddy" group so that no one has to walk home alone from a party or a study session. Which advantage of group membership does this provide?
A) provides multiple sources of information
B) help achieve goals that might not otherwise be accomplished
C) helps meet need for security
D) contributes to positive social identity

Accepted Answer

This late-night "buddy" group helps meet the need for security as it ensures that no one has to walk home alone, reducing the risk of being vulnerable to potential dangers.

Question 14

Which guideline helps support ethical group behavior?
A) Group members do not have the right to state personal opinions.
B) Unpopular opinions should be withheld if all other group members are in agreement.
C) Group members must exercise caution in sharing information that might benefit the group.
D) Confidential information shared in the group should remain confidential.

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality is key in establishing trust within a group. Group members must be aware that any information shared within the group must remain confidential to avoid any harm or betrayal that may arise.

Question 15

According to Wilmot and Hocker's perspective on conflict, communication behavior __________.
A) is unrelated to conflict
B) is the cause of all conflict
C) often creates or reflects conflict
D) plays little role in defusing conflict

Accepted Answer

Wilmot and Hocker's perspective on conflict is that communication behavior often creates or reflects conflict, meaning that it plays a significant role in the development and escalation of conflicts between individuals or groups.

Question 16

According to Dewey's reflective thinking steps, the first step in group problem solving and decision making is to identify the problem or topic for discussion. The second step is to __________.
A) decide how to implement the solution
B) determine how the problem might have been avoided
C) analyze the problem and its causes
D) suggest possible solutions

Accepted Answer

After identifying the problem or topic, the next step is to analyze it and determine its causes. Only after this step can possible solutions be suggested and evaluated, and a decision made on how to implement the solution. Determining how the problem might have been avoided can be part of the analysis step or a separate reflective step, but it is not the immediate next step in Dewey's reflective thinking process.

Question 17

The most successful small groups include members who __________.
A) fill the task and building/maintenance roles and avoid the self-centered roles
B) strictly focus on the group's task roles
C) strictly focus on the group's building/maintenance roles
D) avoid filling any specific group roles

Accepted Answer

The most successful small groups have members who fill both task roles (such as initiating, coordinating, and evaluating ideas) and building/maintenance roles (such as encouraging, mediating, and setting a positive tone). Members who focus only on task roles may neglect important interpersonal dynamics, while members who focus only on building/maintenance roles may fail to help the group achieve its goals. Similarly, members who fill self-centered roles (such as dominating, attention-seeking, or playing devil's advocate) can hinder the group's progress and cohesion.

Question 18

When is an especially important time for groups to evaluate their own effectiveness?
A) before beginning their initial task
B) after completion of a task
C) when conflict arises
D) when the group forms

Accepted Answer

After completion of a task is an especially important time for groups to evaluate their own effectiveness because it allows them to reflect on what went well and what areas need improvement for future tasks. It also helps the group to identify strengths and weaknesses within the group dynamic, fostering growth and development.

Question 19

The technique used by groups to generate as many ideas as possible within a limited amount of time is called __________.
A) consensus building
B) personal inventory
C) cross-indexing
D) brainstorming

Accepted Answer

The technique used by groups to generate as many ideas as possible within a limited amount of time is called brainstorming.

Question 20

What is a significant disadvantage of working in decision-making and problem-solving groups, rather than working alone?
A) The process takes more time than working alone.
B) Conflicting opinions or ideas may be presented.
C) Almost everyone wants to be the leader, not the follower.
D) Individual members are unable to meet their social identity needs.

Accepted Answer

Working in groups often requires more time due to the need for discussion, consensus-building, and coordination among members, which can slow down the decision-making process compared to working alone.

Quiz 14: Connecting Through Participating in Groups and Teams

When the harmony of the group is seen as more important than new ideas and changing previous assumptions, that group is displaying __________.

What is the general goal of most problem-solving groups?

During discussions in a small group working on solving campus security problems, Huan always finds fault with everyone else's ideas but doesn't seem to contribute many of his own. Huan's behavior role can probably be labeled as __________.

An ethical perspective for members to consider is the collectivistic nature of group interactions. This means that __________.

Adam and Galanes suggest that individuals can and should behave ethically during conflict by __________.

Amita dreaded the group project in her marketing class, because one group member spent all his time texting during their work sessions. Amita knew that she and the other three group members would have to work extra hard to get a good grade. What disadvantage of group work does this describe?

Jeannie's work team needs to resolve the holiday scheduling issue. Everyone wants the same days off, but the department must be staffed at all times. Jeannie wants to be fair, but a solution must be found quickly. She suggests they apply Dewey's reflective thinking steps because __________.

According to functional theory, which task requirement does not need to be met for group members to successfully complete their goal?

Potential differences between male and female leadership styles were found in an extensive review of research by Alice Eagly and Blair Johnson. The differences appeared in the dimensions of __________ and in participative versus directive leadership styles.

One of the greatest weaknesses of beginning group participants is their tendency to __________.

Research indicates that leaders with a democratic style tend to produce more __________ among group members.

Several women on campus decided to form a late-night "buddy" group so that no one has to walk home alone from a party or a study session. Which advantage of group membership does this provide?

Which guideline helps support ethical group behavior?

According to Wilmot and Hocker's perspective on conflict, communication behavior __________.

According to Dewey's reflective thinking steps, the first step in group problem solving and decision making is to identify the problem or topic for discussion. The second step is to __________.

The most successful small groups include members who __________.

When is an especially important time for groups to evaluate their own effectiveness?

The technique used by groups to generate as many ideas as possible within a limited amount of time is called __________.

What is a significant disadvantage of working in decision-making and problem-solving groups, rather than working alone?