Exam 11: Group Decision Making and Problem Solving

Which decision-making style is demonstrated by a group member who says, "I just can't deal with this right now"?

A group member who solicits advice and opinions from others before making a decision ("If you think it's okay, that's fine with me") probably uses an avoidance decision making style.

Decision making refers to the passing of judgment on an issue and the act of reaching a conclusion or making up your mind.

As difficult as it can be to make personal decisions, the challenge is multiplied many times over in a group.

Voting works best when a group is too large to use any other decision-making method.

In terms of ethical group decision making, revealing the sources of information and evidence so everyone can evaluate them represents the social code responsibility.

Problem solving is a complex _____________ in which groups make multiple decisions as they analyze a problem and develop a plan for solving the problem or reducing its harmful effects.

A group member who says "I can't explain why-it just feels like the right thing to do," probably uses a rational decision making style.

The Decreased Options Technique (DOT) works best when a group must sort through a multitude of ideas and options.

Under what circumstances should a group consider using the Decreasing Options Technique (DOT) for problem solving? Identify and describe all four steps in the process.

False consensus occurs when group members refuse to give in to group pressures or external authority.

This 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."

In a group setting, problem solving results in a position, opinion, judgment, conclusion, or action.

The groupthink symptom of morality would be evident if one member said to another: "We're right. We've done this before and nothing's gone wrong."

Which ethical responsibility functions when group members promise to reveal their sources of information so others can evaluate them?

Effective virtual groups adjust to key differences between face-to-face and virtual interaction. Identify three communication technologies used by virtual groups and describe which technologies are best suited to different problem-solving functions.

Agendas are only needed for, and useful in, formal or business meetings.

Your group must come up with a discussion topic for a class assignment. Group members work together suggesting as many topics as they can. Members invite all ideas and do not criticize the suggestions of other members. Which decision-making method is the group using?

Which symptom of groupthink is expressed when a 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!"

Group members with feminine values may have difficulty achieving a respected voice or influence in a U.S. business group.