Chapter 09

Essentials of Organizational Behavior, 14e (Robbins/Judge)
Chapter 9 Foundations of Group Behavior
1) Which one of the following characteristics is not necessarily true about groups?
A) Group members are interdependent.
B) Groups have two or more members.
C) Groups are determined by the organization chart.
D) Groups interact.
E) Groups have particular objectives.
Answer: C
Explanation: C) A group has two or more individuals, interacting and interdependent, who have
come together to achieve a particular objective.
Diff: 1
AACSB: Analytical Thinking
Quest. Category: Concept
LO: 9.1 Distinguish between the different types of groups.
2) Which of the following statements is true regarding informal groups?

A) Informal groups are defined by the organization's structure.
B) In informal groups, the behaviors team members should engage in are stipulated by and
directed toward organizational goals.
C) A group of people who come together to protest against a new law is an informal group.
D) The six members of an airline flight crew are an informal group.
E) Command groups and task groups are examples of informal groups.
Answer: C
Explanation: C) An informal group is neither formally structured nor organizationally
determined. Informal groups are natural formations in the work environment that appear in
response to the need for social contact. Command groups and task groups are examples of formal
groups. A group of people who come together to protest against a new law is an informal group.
Diff: 2
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3) Tammy, Lisa, Bart, Madaline, and Roberto all work at Frink Electronics. After work, Tammy,
Lisa, and Madaline all enjoy going to the Lux Lounge for Happy Hour. Tammy, Lisa, Bart,
Madaline, and Roberto constitute a(n) ________ group.
A) task
B) formal
C) informal
D) performance
E) action
Answer: B
Explanation: B) These five individuals are placed into the organization per the organizational
chart.
Diff: 3
Quest. Category: Critical Thinking
4) Tammy, Lisa, Bart, Madaline, and Roberto all work at Frink Electronics. After work, Tammy,
Lisa, and Madaline all enjoy going to the Lux Lounge for Happy Hour. Tammy, Lisa, and
Madaline constitute a(n) ________ group.
A) task
B) formal
C) informal
D) performance
E) action
Answer: C
Explanation: C) These three individuals are not structured by the organization and are meeting
for social contact.
Diff: 3
2
5) Julia, Bree, and David work in different departments but often eat lunch together. They are an
example of a(n) ________ group.
A) formal
B) informal
C) command
D) task
E) interest
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Informal groups, such as friendship groups, are neither formally structured nor
organizationally determined. An interest group consists of individuals who affiliate to attain a
specific objective with which each individual is concerned. Three employees from different
departments who regularly have lunch or coffee together are an informal group.
Diff: 3
Quest. Category: Application
6) Which of the following is not a reason why people join groups?

A) to consume fewer hours in decision making
B) to fulfill social needs for affiliation
C) to feel stronger and have fewer self-doubts
D) to achieve something that cannot be individually achieved
E) to have increased feelings of worth
Answer: A
Explanation: A) The most popular reasons people have for joining groups include security,
status, self-esteem, affiliation, power, and goal achievement. Group decision making consumes
more hours than an individual tackling the same problem.
Diff: 1
3
7) Temporary groups with deadlines have their own unique sequencing of actions. The first of
these actions is ________.
A) forming
B) first meeting
C) norming
D) transitioning
E) performing
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Temporary groups with deadlines don't seem to follow the usual five-stage
model. Studies indicate they have their own unique sequencing of actions (or inaction): (1) their
first meeting sets the group's direction, (2) this first phase of group activity is one of inertia, (3) a
transition takes place exactly when the group has used up half its allotted time, (4) this transition
initiates major changes, (5) a second phase of inertia follows the transition, and (6) the group's
last meeting is characterized by markedly accelerated activity.
Diff: 1
8) Shehenna, Puja, and Miguel were all recently hired by Blair Industries as account
representatives. During their orientation, these three discovered that they would not be receiving
any paid vacation time for their first year of employment. Social identity theory tells us which of
the following is likely to occur?
A) The trio will quit.
B) The trio will bond together closely.
C) The trio will bond with others in the organization.
D) The trio will turn on each other.
E) The trio will sue.
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Social identity theory tells us that shared events are important and are a catalyst
for group formation. As the trio in question will receive the troubling news together, they will
most likely form a bond with each other that others within the organization will not share.
Diff: 3
AACSB: Application of knowledge
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9) The Walt Disney Company is world renowned for its destination resorts and theme parks. The
company prides itself on providing the highest quality experiences for visitors to the parks and
trains its employees as "cast members" who are all part of the show. Which group of employees
is most likely to be considered an "outgroup" at the theme park?
A) those portraying famous Disney characters
B) those operating the rides
C) those repairing the rides
D) those cleaning the parks
E) those taking the tickets
Answer: C
Explanation: C) While all of these roles are important to the company, those repairing the rides
rarely have interaction with the guests and therefore they would be considered an outgroup in
relation to the other roles mentioned. Is in unlikely though that animosity would be present.
Diff: 2
10) The Walt Disney Company is world renowned for its destination resorts and theme parks.
The company prides itself on providing the highest quality experiences for visitors to the parks
and trains its employees as "cast members" who are all part of the show. Which group of
employees is most likely to be considered the "ingroup" at the theme park?
A) those portraying famous Disney characters
B) those operating the rides
C) those repairing the rides
D) those cleaning the parks
E) those taking the tickets
Answer: A
Explanation: A) When one thinks of Disney Parks, most often they think about seeing the
famous characters. In essence, those portraying the characters might see themselves as being the
most important cast members and therefore better than those in the other roles. Disney in fact
addresses this strenuously in the employee training to prevent the formation of ingroups.
Diff: 2
11) Social Identity Theory deals with how people group together according to race or culture.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: While race and culture may be a part of one's social identity, social identity theory
addresses how we develop group identities and personally invest in the accomplishments of a
group.
Diff: 1
AACSB: Diverse and multicultural work environments
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12) Temporary groups with deadlines follow the five-stage group-development model of
forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Temporary groups with deadlines follow the punctuated-equilibrium model that
has its own unique sequencing of actions.
Diff: 1
13) Differentiate between formal and informal groups.

Answer: Formal groups are those defined by the organization's structure, with designated work
assignments establishing tasks. In formal groups, the behaviors that one should engage in are
stipulated by and directed toward organizational goals. Informal groups are alliances that are
neither formally structured nor organizationally determined. These groups are natural formations
in the work environment that appear in response to the need for social contact.
Diff: 1
14) When a group stands still or becomes locked into a fixed course of action, it is referred to
being in the period of ________.
A) stagnancy
B) inertia
C) dormancy
D) transition
E) completion
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Once a course of action has been established, that course of action directs the
group, and new ideas and plans are not being implemented; thus, the group has forward inertia.
Diff: 2
LO: 9.2 Describe the punctuated-equilibrium model of group development.
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15) When a group first meets, which of the following occurs?
A) General purpose is defined.
B) Assumptions on direction are made.
C) Approach to the project is determined.
D) Both A and C occur.
E) A, B, and C all occur.
Answer: E
Explanation: E) At the first meeting, the group's general purpose and direction is established,
and then a frame-work of behavioral patterns and assumptions through which the group will
approach its project emerges, sometimes in the first few seconds of the group's existence.
Diff: 2
16) At the midpoint of a project, groups tend to experience all of the following except which?
A) bursts of changes
B) dropping of old patterns
C) increased group conflict
D) adoption of new perspectives
E) heightened awareness of time
Answer: C
Explanation: C) The midpoint appears to work like an alarm clock, heightening members'
awareness that their time is limited and they need to get moving. This transition ends phase 1 and
is characterized by a concentrated burst of changes, dropping of old patterns, and adoption of
new perspectives. There is no indication that group conflicts increase.
Diff: 2
17) According to the punctuated-equilibrium model, which two triggers bring about brief
revolutionary change during the group's inertia?
A) group conflict and missed deadlines
B) missed deadlines and resource utilization
C) resource utilization and awareness of time
D) awareness of time and awareness of deadlines
E) awareness of deadlines and group conflict
Answer: D
Explanation: D) When individual members become aware of time and deadlines during the
process, they tend to be inspired to make changes in the processes that are being followed.
Diff: 2
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18) According to the punctuated-equilibrium model, once set, the group's direction is unlikely to
be reexamined throughout the first half of its life.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: Once established, the inertia of the group will continue until the transition or
midpoint of the project is reached.
Diff: 1
19) According to the punctuated-equilibrium model, the performance of the group decreases at
the transition or midpoint of the process.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: According to the model, performance will increase significantly at the midpoint of
the process.
Diff: 1
20) Please describe the six stages of the punctuated-equilibrium model.

Answer: (1) Their first meeting sets the group's direction, (2) the first phase of group activity is
one of inertia and thus slower progress, (3) a transition takes place exactly when the group has
used up half its allotted time, (4) this transition initiates major changes, (5) a second phase of
inertia follows the transition, and (6) the group's last meeting is characterized by markedly
accelerated activity.
Diff: 3
21) Role perception indicates ________.

A) others' belief regarding how you should act in a given situation
B) the skills required for performing the job
C) the social norms that are to be followed while performing the role
D) our view of how we're supposed to act in a given situation
E) acceptable standards of behavior shared by nongroup members
Answer: D
Explanation: D) Our view of how we're supposed to act in a given situation is a role perception.
We engage in certain types of behavior based on how we believe we are supposed to behave.
Diff: 3
LO: 9.3 Show how role requirements change in different situations.
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22) Which term refers to a set of expected behavior patterns attributed to someone occupying a
given position in a social unit?
A) norms
B) status
C) role
D) cohesiveness
E) diversity
Answer: C
Explanation: C) All group members are actors, each playing a role. A role is a set of expected
behavior patterns attributed to someone occupying a given position in a social unit.
Diff: 1
23) Role ________ indicates the way others believe you should act in a given context.
A) perception
B) identity
C) expectation
D) criterion
E) style
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Role expectations are the way others believe you should act in a given context.
Diff: 2
24) Zach is devout and very active in his church. He is also a very dedicated employee. His
manager offers him a promotion but the new role will require him to work Sundays. Zach would
like the promotion, but realizes that it would force him to miss some church activities. In such a
situation, Zach is most likely to experience ________.
A) role conflict
B) emotional contagion
C) cognitive dissonance
D) emotional labor
E) self-concordance
Answer: A
Explanation: A) When compliance with one role requirement may make it difficult to comply
with another, the result is role conflict. Zach is feeling conflict between his role as a church
member and his role as an employee.
Diff: 3
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25) When ________, the result is role conflict.
A) we lack the skills required for performing the role
B) we do not approve of the behavioral requirements of a role
C) our view of the role is different from others' expectations of that role
D) compliance with one role requirement may make it difficult to comply with another
E) different groups of people associate different norms with a role
Answer: D
Explanation: D) When compliance with one role requirement may make it difficult to comply
with another, the result is role conflict. At the extreme, two or more role expectations can be
mutually contradictory.
Diff: 2
26) Rhoda is an executive assistant at a major medical center. Because she works directly with
the head doctor, Rhoda feels that it is appropriate to council patients on their upcoming
procedures. Marge, a recent graduate with a degree in Healthcare Administration, also works at
the medical center and is responsible for new patients. Marge typically becomes irritated when
Rhoda attempts to council new patients. Rhoda is struggling with her ________.
A) role perception
B) role expectation
C) role norms
D) social norms
E) performance norm
Answer: A
Explanation: A) Rhoda feels that because she works closely with the doctor that she has a higher
level of responsibility within the medical office; however, this is an incorrect perception of her
role as she is not responsible for counseling patients.
Diff: 3
10
27) Rhoda is an executive assistant at a major medical center. Because she works directly with
the head doctor, Rhoda feels that it is appropriate to council patients on their upcoming
procedures. Marge, a recent graduate with a degree in Healthcare Administration, also works at
the medical center and is responsible for new patients. Marge typically becomes irritated when
Rhoda attempts to council new patients. Marge's irritation with Rhoda can be explained by
________.
A) role perception
B) role expectation
C) role norms
D) social norms
E) performance norm
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Marge feels that Rhoda should not be working with patients and that she,
Marge, holds the expectations of working with the patients.
Diff: 3
28) ________ are the way others believe you should act in a given situation.
A) Social identities
B) Citizenship behaviors
C) Role expectations
D) Psychological contracts
E) Group status
Answer: C
Explanation: C) People associate certain actions and behaviors with certain roles in society and
believe that all in those roles should act accordingly.
Diff: 1
11
29) Which of the following is most likely to experience interrole conflict?
A) A policewoman who is also a mother
B) A college student who is also working full time
C) A politician who is also a clergyman
D) An actor who is also homosexual
E) A college professor who is also an author
Answer: C
Explanation: C) While everyone has the potential to experience role conflict, someone who is a
politician is called up on to represent the population and the interests of that population. As we
often see in the news, a politician who is also involved in the church struggles to find a balance
on many controversial topics and therefore experiences role conflicts.
Diff: 2
30) Interrole conflict refers to being pulled in several different directions within the workplace.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Interrole conflict occurs when the expectations of our different, separate groups are
in opposition. These groups do not necessarily have to be in the workplace.
Diff: 1
31) A role indicates a set of expected behavior patterns attributed to someone occupying a given
position in a social unit.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: A role indicates a set of expected behavior patterns attributed to someone
occupying a given position in a social unit.
Diff: 1
32) Role expectations indicate our view of how we're supposed to act in a given situation.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Role perception indicates our view of how we're supposed to act in a given
situation. Role expectations are the way others believe you should act in a given context.
Diff: 1
12
33) Explain the following terms: "role perception" and "role expectation."
Answer: Our view of how we're supposed to act in a given situation is role perception. We
engage in certain types of behavior based on how we believe we are supposed to behave. We get
these perceptions from stimuli all around us—for example, friends, books, films, television.
Role expectation is the way others believe you should act in a given context. The role of a United
States federal judge is viewed as having propriety and dignity, whereas a football coach is seen
as aggressive, dynamic, and inspiring to his players.
Diff: 3
34) You have been working at Saxet Consulting for the past year and are expected to complete
three client reviews per week. You have been very productive and have been completing two
extra reviews per week. At a recent team meeting, you expected to receive praise from the
President for this extra work; however, your manager took credit for the extra work and received
the praise from the President. What has your manager violated and what is your likely reaction?
Answer: My manager has violated the psychological contract which exists between a manager
and an employee. Managers are supposed to act in an ethical manner and not take credit for other
people's work. It is very unlikely that I will continue to complete the extra work and it is also
possible I will start to exert less than expected efforts.
Diff: 2
AACSB: Ethical understanding and reasoning
35) Which of the following types of norms are likely to be the most common?
A) appearance norms
B) social arrangement norms
C) resource allocation norms
D) performance norms
E) behavioral norms
Answer: D
Explanation: D) Performance norms provide explicit cues about how hard members should
work, what the level of output should be, how to get the job done, what level of tardiness is
appropriate, and the like. Performance norms tend to be the most common.
Diff: 2
LO: 9.4 Demonstrate how norms exert influence on an individual's behavior.
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36) Which of the following is not an example of a performance norm?
A) when an employee needs to look busy
B) how hard an employee should work
C) the appropriate levels of tardiness
D) the acceptable level of output
E) how to get the job done
Answer: A
Explanation: A) Performance norm examples include: providing explicit cues about how hard
members should work, what the level of output should be, how to get the job done, what level of
tardiness is appropriate, and the like. When to look busy is an appearance norm.
Diff: 2
37) Which of the following terms best describes the acceptable standards of behavior that are
shared by a group's members?
A) norms
B) rules
C) status
D) traditions
E) role perception
Answer: A
Explanation: A) All groups have established norms, or acceptable standards of behavior shared
by their members that express what they ought and ought not to do under certain circumstances.
Diff: 2
38) Which of the following terms refers to the process by which an individual's desire for
acceptance by the group and the pressure by the group on individual members to match its
standards results in a change in individual attitudes and behaviors?
A) conformity
B) coercion
C) commitment
D) convergence
E) confluence
Answer: A
Explanation: A) Conformity is the adjustment of one's behavior to align with the norms of the
group. As a member of a group, you desire acceptance by the group. Thus you are susceptible to
conforming to the group's norms.
Diff: 2
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39) The important groups to which an individual belongs or hopes to belong are known as the
________ groups.
A) conformation
B) reference
C) status
D) power
E) appearance
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Reference groups are groups in which a person is aware of other members,
defines himself or herself as a member or would like to be a member, and feels group members
are significant to him or her.
Diff: 2
40) Milhouse, a classically trained violinist, recently joined a country band. The members of the
band, though they like Milhouse, do not appreciate his attention to details and the preppy way he
dresses. The band is pressuring Milhouse to change in order to fit into the group. Which of the
following represents the most likely conformity expected of Milhouse?
A) for Milhouse to bathe less
B) for Milhouse to wear jeans and boots
C) for Milhouse to play the fiddle
D) both A and B
E) both A and C
Answer: B
Explanation: B) The concept of conformity relates to pressuring someone to change their
attitude and behavior. While he may need to play the fiddle, it is his attitude toward dress that is
the major obstacle to his fitting in with the group.
Diff: 3
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41) Which of the following statements is true regarding behavior in a group?
A) Group norms do not press us toward conformity.
B) A recent study suggests those working in a group were less likely to lie, cheat, and steal than
individuals working alone.
C) Conformity to social norms is higher in individualistic cultures as compared to that in
collectivist cultures.
D) Deviant workplace behavior is likely to flourish where it's supported by group norms.
E) The low-status people in the group speak more often as compared to the high-status people.
Answer: D
Explanation: D) A recent study suggests those working in a group were more likely to lie, cheat,
and steal than individuals working alone. Deviant workplace behavior is likely to flourish where
it's supported by group norms.
Diff: 2
42) ________ can increase the power of norms.

A) Communication
B) Emotions
C) Group status
D) Role expectations
E) Social identity
Answer: A
Explanation: A) Increased levels of communication work to strengthen norms.
Diff: 1
43) Research has indicated that in gender-diverse groups, strong politically correct norms
increase group ________.
A) dissention
B) citizenship behaviors
C) turnover
D) creativity
E) expectations
Answer: D
Explanation: D) The clear expectations about male-female interactions usually present in high
PC environments reduce uncertainty about group expectations, which allows the members to
more easily express their creative ideas without combatting stereotype norms.
Diff: 1
16
44) Which of the following terms best represents voluntary actions that violate significant
organizational norms and, in doing so, threatens the well-being of the organization or its
members?
A) negativity offset
B) deviant workplace behavior
C) self-concordance
D) emotional contagion
E) positivity offset
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Deviant workplace behavior (also called counterproductive behavior or
employee withdrawal) is voluntary behavior that violates significant organizational norms and, in
doing so, threatens the well-being of the organization or its members.
Diff: 2
45) As compared to collectivist cultures, conformity to social norms is higher in individualistic

cultures.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Conformity to social norms is higher in collectivist cultures, but it is still a
powerful force in groups in individualistic countries.
Diff: 1
46) What is deviant workplace behavior? How is deviant workplace behavior influenced by the
group to which the individual belongs?
Answer: Deviant workplace behavior (also called antisocial behavior or workplace incivility) is
voluntary behavior that violates significant organizational norms and, in doing so, threatens the
well-being of the organization or its members.
Like norms in general, individual employees' antisocial actions are shaped by the group context
within which they work. Evidence demonstrates that antisocial behavior exhibited by a work
group is a significant predictor of an individual's antisocial behavior at work. In other words,
deviant workplace behavior is likely to flourish where it's supported by group norms. Workers
who socialize either at or outside work with people who are frequently absent from work are
more likely to be absent themselves. Someone who ordinarily wouldn't engage in deviant
behavior might be more likely to do so when working in a group. A recent study suggests those
working in a group were more likely to lie, cheat, and steal than individuals working alone. Thus,
deviant behavior depends on the accepted norms of the group—or even whether an individual is
part of a group.
Diff: 3
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47) Which of the following statements is true regarding the effect of status on group interaction?
A) Lower-status members state fewer commands than high status members.
B) Lower-status members tend to be more assertive group members as compared to high-status
members.
C) Lower-status members speak more often as compared to high-status members.
D) Lower-status members interrupt others more often compared to high-status members.
E) As compared to high-status members, lower-status members tend to participate in group
discussions more actively.
Answer: A
Explanation: A) High-status people tend to be more assertive group members. They speak out
more often, criticize more, state more commands, and interrupt others more often. Lower-status
members tend to participate less actively in group discussions.
Diff: 2
LO: 9.5 Show how status and size differences affect group performance.
48) According to status characteristics theory, which of the following factors does not determine
status?
A) control over the resources needed by the group
B) contribution to goals
C) ability to conform to group norms
D) personality
E) talent
Answer: C
Explanation: C) According to status characteristics theory, status tends to derive from one of
three sources: the power a person wields over others; a person's ability to contribute to a group's
goals; and an individual's personal characteristics (special talent, intelligence, money, or a
friendly personality).
Diff: 2
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49) Which of the following statements is true regarding the effect of status on conformity
pressure?
A) High-status individuals are often given less freedom to deviate from norms than are other
group members.
B) People in high-status jobs have especially negative reactions to social pressure exerted by
people in low-status jobs.
C) Lower-status people are better able to resist conformity pressures than their high-status peers.
D) Groups exert equal conformity pressure on all individuals regardless of their status.
E) As compared to high-status members, low-status members are given a wider range of
discretion as long as their activities aren't severely detrimental to group goal achievement.
Answer: B
Explanation: B) High-status individuals are often given more freedom to deviate from norms
than are other group members. People in high-status jobs (such as physicians, lawyers, or
executives) have especially negative reactions to social pressure exerted by people in low-status
jobs. Physicians actively resist administrative decisions made by lower-ranking insurance
company employees.
Diff: 2
50) Groups of approximately ________ members tend to be more effective for taking action.
A) two
B) seven
C) eleven
D) sixteen
E) twenty-one
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Smaller groups of about seven members are better at doing something
productive.
Diff: 2
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51) Which of the following terms indicates the tendency of individuals to spend less effort when
working collectively?
A) groupthink
B) collective efficacy
C) social loafing
D) groupshift
E) clustering
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Social loafing is the tendency for individuals to expend less effort when
working in a group than when working individually. Group performance increases with group
size, but the addition of new members has diminishing returns on productivity.
Diff: 2
52) Which of the following is an effective means of countering social loafing?

A) increase the rewards the group is given if it succeeds
B) increase the amount by which the group's progress is monitored
C) ensure that individual contributions to the group's outcome are identified
D) increase the size of the group
E) increase the group's work load
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Since group results cannot be attributed to any single person, the relationship
between an individual's input and the group's output is clouded. Individuals may then be tempted
to become free riders and coast on the group's efforts. To avoid this, individual efforts in a
group's outcome should be identified.
Diff: 2
20
53) Joe is the manager of the marketing department of an organization. He is restructuring his
department and is creating teams to increase the effectiveness of his department. He recognizes
that the size of groups impacts their overall behavior and effectiveness. Joe is forming a fact-
finding group. What would be the better group size to gain diverse input?
A) two
B) five
C) seven
D) ten
E) over twelve
Answer: E
Explanation: E) When it comes to problem solving or fact-finding, large groups consistently get
better marks than their smaller counterparts. Groups with a dozen or more members are good for
gaining diverse input.
Diff: 2
54) Most likely, what would be the size of the group that is expected to implement a marketing
plan?
A) two
B) five
C) seven
D) ten
E) over twelve
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Groups of approximately seven members tend to be more effective for taking
action. Implementing a marketing plan (that is already designed by someone else) involves
taking action. Hence the appropriate size of the group is approximately seven members.
Diff: 1
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55) Julio and Waylin both work at a trendy uptown clothing store and were hired at the same
time. Julio was recently promoted over Waylin (who is balding), even though Julio often misses
work. Which element of status explains this occurrence?
A) power a person wield over others
B) person's ability to contribute to group goals
C) an individual's personal characteristics
D) group interactions
E) the size of the organization
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Even though he appears to not be as dedicated an employee, Julio must be
better looking than Waylin, which is beneficial to the mission of the organization.
Diff: 3
56) The idea of social loafing is most prominent in which country?

A) China
B) Israel
C) Serbia
D) Russia
E) Canada
Answer: E
Explanation: E) Social loafing has a Western bias and is consistent with individualistic cultures,
such as Canada and the United States.
Diff: 2
57) Since group results cannot be attributed to any single person, the relationship between an
individual's input and the group's output is clouded and this increases the possibility of
________.
A) self-concordance
B) emotional contagion
C) negative offset
D) social loafing
E) emotional labor
Answer: D
Explanation: D) Social loafing refers to the tendency for individuals to expend less effort when
working collectively than alone. Since group results cannot be attributed to any single person, the
relationship between an individual's input and the group's output is clouded and this increases the
possibility of social loafing.
Diff: 2
22
58) Low-status groups, perhaps in response to discrimination, are likely to leverage ________ to
compete for higher status.
A) ingroup fighting
B) outgroup fighting
C) citizenship behaviors
D) outgroup favoritism
E) ingroup favoritism
Answer: E
Explanation: E) Leveraging ingroup favoritism allows individuals or groups to improve their
status, usually though ingratiation.
Diff: 2
59) High-status group members interrupt others more often than low-status members.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: High-status group members speak out more often, criticize more, state more
commands, and interrupt others more often.
Diff: 1
60) High-status members of groups are often given less freedom to deviate from norms than are
other group members.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: High-status individuals are often given more freedom to deviate from norms than
are other group members. As high-status individuals, they're given a wider range of discretion as
long as their activities aren't severely detrimental to group goal achievement.
Diff: 1
61) In order to avoid status inequity, organizations should remove elements which cause status,
such as job titles and chains of command.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: To avoid issues of status inequity, organizations must make sure that group
members believe the status hierarchy is equitable.
Diff: 1
23
62) According to the status characteristics theory, what are the three sources of status?
Answer: According to status characteristics theory, status tends to derive from one of three
sources:
1. The power a person wields over others. Because they likely control the group's resources,
people who control the outcomes tend to be perceived as high status.
2. A person's ability to contribute to a group's goals. People whose contributions are critical to
the group's success tend to have high status.
3. An individual's personal characteristics. Someone whose personal characteristics are positively
valued by the group (good looks, intelligence, money, or a friendly personality) typically has
higher status than someone with fewer valued attributes.
Diff: 3
63) Gottfried lives in a fairly upscale apartment complex whose residents are all young
professionals. Gottfried is a friendly person and is usually nice to everyone, including the
maintenance staff at the apartment. On Saturday, Gottfried went to the apartment pool party and
was seen talking to the maintenance staff on his way into the pool area. During the party,
Gottfried was shunned by the other people. Why did this happen?
Answer: Gottfried was stigmatized by associating with the maintenance staff. In this situation,
the young professionals in the apartment view themselves as being of a certain status and, as it
common in society, those in maintenance roles are seen as being of a lowly status. Because
Gottfried was seen associating with the maintenance staff, his status was stigmatized by
association.
Diff: 3
64) What are some ways to prevent social loafing?

Answer: While there will be some variety in the specifics, responses should be based on some of
the following principles: (1) set group goals, so the group has a common purpose to strive
toward; (2) increase intergroup competition, which focuses on the shared group outcome; (3)
engage in peer evaluations; (4) select members who have high motivation and prefer to work in
groups; and (5) base group rewards in part on each member's unique contributions.
Diff: 2
AACSB: Application of knowledge
24
65) How does group size affect a group's behavior?
Answer: The evidence indicates that smaller groups are faster at completing tasks than are larger
ones, and that individuals perform better in smaller groups. However, if the group is engaged in
problem solving, large groups consistently get better marks than their smaller counterparts.
Translating these results into specific numbers is a bit more hazardous, but we can offer some
parameters. Large groups—with a dozen or more members—are good for gaining diverse input.
So if the goal of the group is fact-finding, larger groups should be more effective. On the other
hand, smaller groups are better at doing something productive with that input. Groups of
approximately seven members, therefore, tend to be more effective for taking action.
Diff: 3
66) Which of the following terms indicates the degree to which group members are attracted to
one another and are motivated to stay in the group?
A) cohesiveness
B) integration
C) sociability
D) reliability
E) interdependence
Answer: A
Explanation: A) Cohesiveness describes the degree to which group members are attracted to
each other and are motivated to stay in the group. Cohesiveness is important because it affects
group productivity.
Diff: 2
LO: 9.6 Describe how issues of cohesiveness and diversity can be integrated for group
effectiveness.
25
67) Which of the following statements is true regarding the effect of group cohesiveness and
performance norms on group productivity?
A) When cohesiveness is low and performance norms are also low, productivity will be high.
B) The productivity of the group is affected by the performance norms but not by the
cohesiveness of the group.
C) If cohesiveness is high and performance norms are low, productivity will be high.
D) If cohesiveness is low and performance norms are high, productivity will be low.
E) When both cohesiveness and performance norms are high, productivity will be high.
Answer: E
Explanation: E) Studies consistently show that the relationship between cohesiveness and
productivity depends on the group's performance-related norms. If performance-related norms
are high, a cohesive group will be more productive than will a less cohesive group. If
cohesiveness is high and performance norms are low, productivity will be low. If cohesiveness is
low and performance norms are high, productivity increases, but less than in the high-
cohesiveness/high-norms situation. When cohesiveness and performance-related norms are both
low, productivity tends to fall into the low-to-moderate range.
Diff: 3
effectiveness.
68) Which of the following is not likely to encourage group cohesiveness?

A) stimulating competition with other groups
B) increasing the size of the group
C) obtaining agreement upon the established goals
D) increasing the group's status and the perceived difficulty of attaining membership
E) physically isolating the group
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Making smaller groups encourages group cohesiveness.
Diff: 2
effectiveness.
26
69) Alberto is working with a group of fifteen people to coordinate the merger of two
corporations. Everyone in the group is highly qualified, offers relevant information, and has high
norms. Still, the group seems to be slow at outlining a definitive plan for the merger. With the
information provided, what would be the fastest and best way for Alberto to increase
cohesiveness and productivity?
A) hold long meetings at a restaurant or in a social setting
B) stimulate competition within the group
C) decrease the time members spend together
D) decrease the size of the group
E) invite more members into the group
Answer: D
Explanation: D) If both cohesiveness and performance norms are high, the productivity tends to
be high. The group already has high performance norms so Alberto should try to increase the
cohesiveness of the group. Alberto should immediately decrease the size of the group, as fifteen
people is too large, and a smaller group will increase cohesiveness. Instead of a social setting, the
group should be isolated, and rewarded as a group, not individually. To increase cohesiveness of
the group, members should spend more time together.
Diff: 3
effectiveness.
70) Which of the following factors corresponds to deep-level diversity in groups?

A) national origin, race, and gender
B) roles, status, and power
C) ability, intelligence, and personality
D) underlying attitudes, values, and opinions
E) security, self-esteem, and affiliation
Answer: D
Explanation: D) Surface-level diversity—in observable characteristics such as national origin,
race, and gender—alerts people to possible deep-level diversity in underlying attitudes, values,
and opinions.
Diff: 2
effectiveness.
27
71) Which of the following is not a characteristic of group diversity?
A) increased conflicts
B) lower group morale
C) higher dropout rates
D) decreased cohesiveness
E) greater factual errors
Answer: E
Explanation: E) Studies have found that diversity increases group conflict, lowers group morale,
raises dropout rates, and lowers cohesiveness. However, diverse groups tend to deliberate longer,
share more information, and make fewer factual errors.
Diff: 2
effectiveness.
72) Gender diversity can be a challenge to a group, but if inclusiveness is stressed, ________ and
________ are lowered.
A) harassment; discrimination
B) discrimination; status
C) status; group conflict
D) group conflict; dissatisfaction
E) dissatisfaction; harassment
Answer: D
Explanation: D) If the environment truly seeks to be inclusive of all groups, including gender,
than conflicts and dissatisfaction are naturally lowered.
Diff: 2
effectiveness.
73) If a group is highly cohesive then it will be highly productive even with low performance
norms.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Studies consistently show that the relationship between cohesiveness and
productivity depends on the group's performance-related norms. If performance-related norms
for quality, output, and cooperation with outsiders, for instance, are high, a cohesive group will
be more productive than will a less cohesive group. But if cohesiveness is high and performance
norms are low, productivity will be low.
Diff: 1
effectiveness.
28
74) Increasing the group's status and the perceived difficulty of attaining membership encourages
group cohesiveness.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: Increasing the group's status and the perceived difficulty of attaining membership
encourages group cohesiveness.
Diff: 1
effectiveness.
75) The degree to which members of the group are similar to, or different from, one another is
considered as diversity.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: Diversity in the group's membership is the degree to which members of the group
are similar to, or different from, one another.
Diff: 1
effectiveness.
76) Describe the relationship between cohesiveness and productivity.

Answer: The relationship of cohesiveness and productivity depends on the performance-related
norms established by the group. If performance-related norms are high, a cohesive group will be
more productive than will a less cohesive group. But if cohesiveness is high and performance
norms are low, productivity will be low. If cohesiveness is low and performance norms are high,
productivity increases but less than in the high cohesiveness/high norms situation. When
cohesiveness and performance-related norms are both low, productivity will tend to fall into the
low-to-moderate range.
Diff: 3
effectiveness.
29
77) Which is not a weakness of group decision making?
A) Group decision making is time consuming.
B) Group decisions tend to be less creative than individual decisions.
C) Group decisions suffer from ambiguous responsibility.
D) Group decisions can be dominated by one or a few members.
E) In a group decision, the responsibility of any single member is diluted.
Answer: B
Explanation: B) If creativity is important, groups tend to be more effective. They offer increased
diversity of views and more complete information and knowledge. Group decision making is
time consuming and it suffers from ambiguous responsibility. Group decisions can be dominated
by one or a few members.
Diff: 2
LO: 9.7 Contrast the strengths and weaknesses of group decision making.
78) Which of the following statements is true regarding group decision making?
A) If creativity is important then individuals tend to be more effective than groups.
B) Group decision making tends to decrease the acceptance of the solution.
C) Group decisions are typically less time consuming than individual decisions.
D) Group decisions are generally less accurate than the decisions of the average individual in a
group.
E) Groups generate more complete information and knowledge than individuals.
Answer: E
Explanation: E) Group decisions are time consuming because groups typically take more time to
reach a solution. Group decisions are generally more accurate than the decisions of the average
individual in a group. If creativity is important, groups tend to be more effective. Groups lead to
increased acceptance of a solution. Groups generate more complete information and knowledge
than individuals.
Diff: 2
30
79) The phenomenon of ________ describes situations in which group pressures for conformity
deter the group from critically appraising unusual, minority, or unpopular views.
A) social loafing
B) groupshift
C) groupthink
D) group polarization
E) satisficing
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Groupthink relates to norms and describes situations in which group pressures
for conformity deter the group from critically appraising unusual, minority, or unpopular views.
Diff: 2
80) In discussing a given set of alternatives and arriving at a solution, group members tend to
exaggerate the initial positions they hold. This phenomenon is called ________.
A) self-concordance
B) groupshift
C) satisficing
D) emotional labor
E) groupthink
Answer: B
Explanation: B) In discussing a given set of alternatives and arriving at a solution, group
members tend to exaggerate the initial positions they hold. This phenomenon is called
groupshift. Group discussion leads members toward a more extreme view of the position they
already held. Conservatives become more cautious, and more aggressive types take on more risk.
Diff: 2
31
81) If you ever felt like speaking up in a meeting, a classroom, or an informal group but decided
against it then the reason behind it could be ________.
A) self-efficacy
B) positivity offset
C) groupthink
D) self-concordance
E) groupshift
Answer: C
Explanation: C) The phenomenon of groupthink describes situations in which group pressures
So if you felt like speaking up in a meeting, a classroom, or an informal group but decided
against it then the reason behind it could be groupthink.
Diff: 2
82) Sandy, Gale, and Marylou are on the board of directors for an area non-profit organization.
At a recent meeting, guest David delivered a rousing speech on how group leadership is often too
complex and that non-profits could often be better served by a CEO and no board of directors.
Sandy emphatically disagreed with David stating that not having the board could open the
organization up to massive levels of corruption. Gale agreed with David and feels that maybe the
organization might do better if only one of the ladies were in charge, mainly herself. Marylou
chose not to comment on the matter, thus leading Sandy to assume that she agreed with her. It
could be said that Sandy is suffering from ________.
A) groupthink
B) groupshift
C) group polarization
D) both A and B
E) all, A, B, and C
Answer: D
Explanation: D) Sandy is suffering first from groupthink because she is assuming, due to her
silence, that Marylou agrees with her. Sandy is also suffering from groupshift because her views
have become very extreme due to David's actions.
Diff: 3
32
83) Sandy, Gale, and Marylou are on the board of directors for an area non-profit organization.
At a recent meeting, guest David delivered a rousing speech on how group leadership is often too
complex and that non-profits could often be better served by a CEO and no board of directors.
Sandy emphatically disagreed with David stating that not having the board could open the
organization up to massive levels of corruption. Gale agreed with David and feels that maybe the
organization might do better if only one of the ladies were in charge, mainly herself. Marylou
chose not to comment on the matter, thus leading Sandy to assume that she agreed with her. It
could be said that Sandy and Gale are suffering from ________.
A) groupthink
B) groupshift
C) group polarization
D) both A and B
E) all, A, B, and C
Answer: D
Explanation: D) Sandy and Gale are both suffering from groupshift in their dramatic change in
beliefs, caused mainly by their being influenced by David. The thoughts of the two women have
dramatically polarized the individual beliefs of the group.
Diff: 3
84) Which of the following steps can be taken by a manager to minimize groupthink?
A) Increase the group size.
B) Encourage group leaders to express their own opinions especially in the early stages of
deliberation.
C) Prevent all team members from playing the role of "devil's advocate."
D) Ask the group members to first focus on the positives of an alternative rather than the
negatives.
E) Ask the group leader to actively seek input from all members.
Answer: E
Explanation: E) In order to minimize groupthink, managers should encourage group leaders to
play an impartial role. Leaders should actively seek input from all members and avoid expressing
their own opinions, especially in the early stages of deliberation. In addition, managers should
appoint one group member to play the role of devil's advocate; this member's role is to overtly
challenge the majority position and offer divergent perspectives.
Diff: 2
33
85) Your organization has recently started using group decision making. You are most likely to
observe that ________.
A) group decision making is slower than individual decision making
B) group decision making leads to decreased acceptance of the solution
C) groups generate less information and knowledge than individuals
D) group decisions are less creative than individual decisions
E) group decisions are more accurate than the judgments of the most accurate individual in the
group
Answer: A
Explanation: A) Groups generate more complete information and knowledge. Group decisions
are time consuming because groups typically take more time to reach a solution. Group decisions
are generally more accurate than the decisions of the average individual in a group but less
accurate than the judgments of the most accurate. In terms of speed, individuals are superior. If
creativity is important, groups tend to be more effective.
Diff: 2
AACSB: Reflective thinking
86) You have observed that the group tends to come to consensus very quickly and there appears
to be an illusion of unanimity. You conclude that they may be suffering from ________.
A) negative affect
B) groupshift
C) cognitive dissonance
D) groupthink
E) positivity offset
Answer: D
Explanation: D) Groupthink relates to norms and describes situations in which group pressures
Diff: 2
87) Which of the following is a group decision-making technique?

A) mind mapping
B) brainstorming
C) lateral thinking
D) group polarization
E) morphological analysis
Answer: B
Explanation: B) Brainstorming is a group decision-making technique.
Diff: 2
34
88) While using which of the following type of group decision-making techniques is a group
more likely to experience increased groupthink?
A) interacting group
B) brainstorming
C) video conference
D) nominal group technique
E) electronic meeting
Answer: A
Explanation: A) In interacting groups, members meet face to face and rely on both verbal and
nonverbal interaction to communicate. But interacting groups often censor themselves and
pressure individual members toward conformity of opinion, generating fewer ideas.
Diff: 2
89) Patricia needs as many creative ideas as she can get for the new advertising campaign, and
her small agency doesn't have a lot of money for high-tech meeting facilities. Given the
information provided, which meeting technique will provide the highest number of quality ideas?
A) interacting groups
B) brainstorming
C) nominal group technique
D) electronic meeting
E) social interaction
Answer: C
Explanation: C) The nominal group technique restricts discussion or interpersonal
communication during the decision-making process. Nominal group technique is an inexpensive
means for generating a large number of ideas.
Diff: 2
35
90) Maya just got out of a meeting. She is extremely frustrated because nothing got done and
now she has to deal with workplace drama. Sophia is threatening to quit because the group
members severely criticized her idea without even giving her a chance to complete her point. The
entire meeting turned into a conflict management session for Maya. Which of the following
meeting techniques was most likely used by Maya?
A) interacting group
B) brainstorming
C) nominal group
E) video conferencing
Answer: A
Explanation: A) Interacting groups often pressure individual members toward conformity of
opinion. Brainstorming and the nominal group technique have been proposed as ways to reduce
problems inherent in the traditional interacting group. Brainstorming can overcome the pressures
for conformity that dampen creativity by encouraging any and all alternatives while withholding
criticism.
Diff: 3
91) ________ is good for achieving commitment to a solution.

A) An interacting group
B) Brainstorming
C) Nominal group technique
D) Electronic meeting
E) Delphi technique
Answer: A
Explanation: A) In interacting groups, members meet face to face and rely on both verbal and
nonverbal interaction to communicate. An interacting group is good for achieving commitment
to a solution.
Diff: 2
36
92) In this group discussion technique, the group leader states the problem in a clear manner so
all participants understand. Members then freewheel as many alternatives as they can in a given
length of time. No criticism is allowed, and all alternatives are recorded for later discussion and
analysis. One idea stimulates others, and judgments of even the most bizarre suggestions are
withheld until later to encourage group members to "think the unusual." Identify the decision-
making technique in the discussion.
A) group polarization
B) morphological analysis
C) mind mapping
E) brainstorming
Answer: E
Explanation: E) Brainstorming can overcome the pressures for conformity that dampen
creativity by encouraging any and all alternatives while withholding criticism. During
brainstorming, one idea stimulates others, and judgments of even the most bizarre suggestions
are withheld until later to encourage group members to "think the unusual."
Diff: 2
93) Which of the following statements is true regarding brainstorming?

A) Brainstorming encourages criticizing an idea as early as possible.
B) Brainstorming overcomes the problem of "production blocking."
C) Brainstorming can overcome the pressures for conformity.
D) Research consistently shows that a group in a brainstorming session generates more ideas
than an individual working alone.
E) Brainstorming fails to develop group cohesiveness.
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Brainstorming can overcome the pressures for conformity that dampen
creativity by encouraging any and all alternatives while withholding criticism. Research
consistently shows individuals working alone generate more ideas than a group in a
brainstorming session. One reason for this is "production blocking." When people are generating
ideas in a group, many are talking at once, which blocks the thought process and eventually
impedes the sharing of ideas. Brainstorming develops group cohesiveness.
Diff: 2
37
94) Hubert needs an instruction manual for his new product. He needs a small team of technical
writers to work together closely to rapidly write the manual. He needs them to communicate
ideas quickly, creatively, and affordably. Which of the following group techniques should
Hubert consider?
A) nominal and electronic
B) nominal and interacting
C) brainstorming and electronic
D) electronic and interacting
E) interacting and brainstorming
Answer: E
Explanation: E) Hubert needs a group with high creativity, high cohesion, and low expense. He
should choose either interacting or brainstorming techniques to get his task completed. Nominal
techniques, although high in creativity and affordability, are slow and only moderately cohesive.
Electronic techniques are slow and expensive and have zero cohesion.
Diff: 3
95) You decide that your company's choice of which new product to manufacture needs to have
widespread acceptance and that this decision needs to be of the highest quality possible. Having
read the literature on decision making, you believe that this choice needs to be made by a group
of your best managers. You have decided to use the nominal group technique. Which of the
following statements is true about this method?
A) This method is good for building group cohesiveness.
B) This method is good for processing ideas rapidly.
C) This method is good for encouraging independent thinking.
D) This method is not an inexpensive means for generating a large number of ideas.
E) This method is good for achieving commitment to a solution.
Answer: C
Explanation: C) Nominal group technique is a group decision-making method in which
individual members meet face to face to pool their judgments in a systematic but independent
fashion. It does not restrict independent thinking.
Diff: 2
38
96) You are likely to select nominal group technique over brainstorming because ________.
A) nominal group technique involves a great deal of face-to-face interaction
B) brainstorming encourages severe criticism to all ideas
C) research generally shows nominal groups outperform brainstorming groups
D) brainstorming decreases group cohesiveness
E) during brainstorming sessions, group members feel high pressure for conformity
Answer: C
Explanation: C) The chief advantage of the nominal group technique is that it permits a group to
meet formally but does not restrict independent thinking, as does an interacting group. Research
generally shows nominal groups outperform brainstorming groups.
Diff: 2
97) The chief advantage of the nominal group technique is that it permits the group to meet
formally but does not restrict independent thinking, as does the interacting group.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: The chief advantage of the nominal group technique is that it permits a group to
meet formally but does not restrict independent thinking, as does an interacting group. Research
generally shows nominal groups outperform brainstorming groups.
Diff: 1
98) Research consistently shows that a group in a brainstorming session generates more ideas
than an individual working alone.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Research consistently shows individuals working alone generate more ideas than a
group in a brainstorming session.
Diff: 1
99) Individual decisions are more time consuming than group decisions.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Group decisions have their drawbacks. They're time consuming because groups
typically take more time to reach a solution.
Diff: 1
39
100) If creativity is important, then individual decision making tends to be more effective than
group decision making.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: If creativity is important, then group decision making tends to be more effective
than individual decision making.
Diff: 1
101) Group decisions are generally less accurate than the judgments of the most accurate
individual in the group.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: Group decisions are generally more accurate than the decisions of the average
individual in a group but less accurate than the judgments of the most accurate member.
Diff: 1
102) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of group decisions as compared to individual
decisions.
Answer: Group decisions are generally more accurate than the decisions of the average
individual in a group but less accurate than the judgments of the most accurate. In terms of
speed, individuals are superior. If creativity is important, groups tend to be more effective. And
if effectiveness means the degree of acceptance the final solution achieves, the nod again goes to
the group. With few exceptions, group decision making consumes more work hours than if an
individual were to tackle the same problem alone. Because groups can include members from
diverse areas, the time spent searching for information can be reduced. Groups are generally less
efficient than individuals.
Diff: 3
103) Explain the following terms: "groupthink" and "groupshift."

Answer: Groupthink is related to norms. It describes situations in which group pressures for
conformity deter the group from critically appraising unusual, minority, or unpopular views.
Groupthink is a disease that attacks many groups and can dramatically hinder their performance.
Groupshift indicates that in discussing a given set of alternatives and arriving at a solution, group
members tend to exaggerate the initial positions that they hold. What appears to happen in
groups is that the discussion leads members toward a more extreme view of the position they
already held. Conservatives become more cautious, and more aggressive types take on more risk.
Diff: 3
40

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Essentials of Organizational Behavior, 14e (Robbins/Judge)

Chapter 9 Foundations of Group Behavior

2) Which of the following statements is true regarding informal groups?

6) Which of the following is not a reason why people join groups?

13) Differentiate between formal and informal groups.

20) Please describe the six stages of the punctuated-equilibrium model.

21) Role perception indicates ________.

42) ________ can increase the power of norms.

45) As compared to collectivist cultures, conformity to social norms is higher in individualistic

52) Which of the following is an effective means of countering social loafing?

56) The idea of social loafing is most prominent in which country?

64) What are some ways to prevent social loafing?

68) Which of the following is not likely to encourage group cohesiveness?

70) Which of the following factors corresponds to deep-level diversity in groups?

76) Describe the relationship between cohesiveness and productivity.

87) Which of the following is a group decision-making technique?

91) ________ is good for achieving commitment to a solution.

93) Which of the following statements is true regarding brainstorming?

103) Explain the following terms: "groupthink" and "groupshift."

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