Exam 10: Understanding Groups and Managing Work Teams

The studies by Solomon Asch show that group norms are a powerful force.

Group norms typically are ________.

Asch's results are attributed to the tendency of people in groups to ________.

Collectivist societies tend to have an enormous problem with social loafing.

In a short essay, describe the characteristics of a problem-solving team.

Team diversity generally leads to ________ in overall team performance.

Autonomy is a ________ factor that contributes to team effectiveness.

Selection is important in the success of a team.

Small groups appear to perform better when it comes to ________.

When assembling a team, managers should look for individuals who ________.

Asch's findings show that ________ cultures tend to be more conformist than North American cultures.

In a brief essay, discuss how managers can use training to shape team behavior.

Asch's subjects were seen to give incorrect answers that they knew were incorrect in ________ of his studies.

Disruptive effects of diversity on team performance can decline over time.

Which type of team is rarely given the authority to unilaterally implement any of its suggested actions?

The first-line managers of ELH Inc. were sent on a retreat to Silver Falls for their inaugural strategic planning meeting. Few people knew each other, but their task was clear: design a new performance appraisal system for subordinates that would be effective and usable. The first day, little was accomplished except for the jockeying to see who would be the official leader. Finally, Jim seemed to wrangle control and helped provide the first real direction for the group. By the second day, the group seemed to begin working well. They spent the morning determining group standards with respect to how they would make decisions within the group and how to manage the idea-generation process. On the third and fourth days, the managers got down to work and moved amazingly quickly, with ideas flowing freely. By the end of the fourth day, they had a workable system developed, and they felt satisfied. That night they all signed off on a new document to be presented to the regional manager the next day. They all felt a twinge of regret at having to break up the group and return to normal work life. -When the management team left Silver Falls to return to their own teams and departments, they had just completed the ________ stage of group development.

Formal groups tend to form around friendships and common interests.

The group is likely to work on its primary task during the adjourning stage of group development.

A team that lacks discipline needs someone to fulfill this team role.

A certain amount of this is usually required for effective teams.