Chapter 9
1. Which of the following can be defined as 3-15 people working interdependently to
accomplish a task?
a. Small group
b. Task group
c. Working group
d. Cohesive group
Answer: a
Rationale:
A small group is typically defined as consisting of 3-15 individuals who work
interdependently to achieve a common goal. This definition distinguishes it from larger
groups or teams and emphasizes the collaborative nature of the group's efforts.
2. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of small groups?
a. Interdependent
b. Cohesive
c. Avoid rules and norms
d. Include individual roles
Answer: c
Rationale:
Small groups are characterized by interdependence, cohesion, and the presence of individual
roles. However, they do not typically avoid rules and norms; rather, they often rely on
established norms and rules to guide their interactions and achieve their objectives.
3. According to current communication scholars, a small group is composed of at least _____
and no more than 15 or 20 members.
a. 2
b. 3
c. 4
d. 5
Answer: b
Rationale:
Current communication scholars generally define a small group as consisting of at least three
members but typically no more than 15 or 20 members. This range allows for effective
communication and interaction while maintaining the group's cohesion.
4. The size of a small group matters because most of us _____________ differently in larger
and smaller collections of people.
a. prepare
b. influence
c. cohere
d. communicate
Answer: d
Rationale:
The size of a small group influences how individuals communicate within it. Larger groups
may require more formal communication structures, while smaller groups often facilitate
more informal and direct communication among members.
5. What term describes the scenario in which each group member influences, and is
influenced by, every other group member?
a. Working together
b. Interdependence
c. Codependence
d. Dependence
Answer: b
Rationale:
Interdependence describes the mutual influence that group members have on each other. In a
small group setting, each member's actions and decisions affect and are affected by the
actions and decisions of other members.
6. Jack and Kate are working on a small group project for their political science class. They
disagree on how to complete part of the assignment, which soon escalates to a full-scale
argument. Afterward, they find it difficult to work together, and the entire group is affected.
Jack and Kate are demonstrating ____________, meaning their moods and behaviors
influenced, and were influenced by, one another’s in a way that affected the group.
a. interdependence
b. conflict
c. codependence
d. escalation
Answer: a
Rationale:
Jack and Kate's situation illustrates interdependence, as their disagreement and subsequent
conflict highlight the mutual influence they have on each other's attitudes and behaviors
within the group context.
7. Groups are interdependent if the members all influence each other, but they are
____________ only if the members work together toward the same goal.
a. successful
b. effective
c. cohesive
d. influential
Answer: c
Rationale:
Cohesion refers to the degree of unity or togetherness within a group. While interdependence
reflects mutual influence among group members, cohesion specifically emphasizes the
collective commitment and cooperation toward achieving common objectives.
8. In your algebra class, you are assigned to work in a small group. Most group members
know their specific tasks and follow through on them, but there are two members who neglect
their responsibilities. Therefore, your group’s _________ cohesion is low.
a. social
b. overall
c. working
d. task
Answer: d
Rationale:
Task cohesion relates to the degree of shared commitment among group members to
achieving the group's goals. In this scenario, the neglect of responsibilities by two members
indicates a lack of task cohesion within the group.
9. Which of the following is NOT a behavior that can cause a group to become
dysfunctional?
a. Parasitism
b. Bragging
c. Interpersonal aggression
d. Misuse of resources
Answer: b
Rationale:
Dysfunctional behaviors within a group can include parasitism (one member relying
excessively on others), interpersonal aggression (conflict or hostility between members), and
misuse of resources. Bragging, however, is not typically considered a behavior that directly
contributes to group dysfunction.
10. A group’s _________ are its explicitly stated principles for governing what its members
can and cannot do.
a. norms
b. standards
c. rules
d. guidelines
Answer: c
Rationale:
Rules are specific directives or guidelines that dictate permissible and prohibited behaviors
within a group. They provide structure and clarity regarding member conduct and help
maintain order and cohesion within the group.
11. Genevieve and her friends sit together every day at lunch. It is understood that they will
meet and sit in the same spot. Genevieve would never dream of bringing her lunch from
home; in her group everyone buys lunch at the cafeteria. If Genevieve wants to bring
someone new to join the group, she knows she should bring it up with her friends first. Even
though these ______ were never explicitly stated, Genevieve knows how to conduct her
behavior based on observing how her friends behave in the group.
a. rules
b. norms
c. guidelines
d. principles
Answer: b
Rationale:
Norms are implicit rules or expectations within a group. In this scenario, Genevieve knows
how to behave within her friend group without explicit instructions, indicating the presence
of social norms guiding their behavior.
12. Although it has never been discussed, it is understood that when someone in your study
group is going to be late, that person should send a text message. What term best describes
your study group’s unspoken understanding?
a. Norm
b. Rule
c. Guideline
d. Principle
Answer: a
Rationale:
Norms are informal rules or expectations governing behavior within a group. In this case, the
expectation of sending a text message when one is going to be late is an unspoken norm
within the study group.
13. What is your supervisor establishing when she tells your committee that your meetings
will begin at 10 a.m. on the last Tuesday of each month?
a. A norm
b. A guideline
c. A rule
d. A suggestion
Answer: c
Rationale:
A rule is a specific directive or requirement. In this case, the supervisor is establishing a clear
directive regarding the timing of committee meetings.
14. Patterns of behavior that define a person’s function within a group are called what?
a. Positions
b. Norms
c. Functions
d. Roles
Answer: d
Rationale:
Roles refer to the expected patterns of behavior and responsibilities assigned to individuals
within a group.
15. If a committee has a designated chairperson and note-taker, these are what types of roles?
a. Assigned
b. Formal
c. Informal
d. Unassigned
Answer: b
Rationale:
Formal roles are explicitly defined positions within a group, such as chairperson or notetaker.
16. What types of roles most frequently reflect how well or poorly the group functions while
carrying out its mission?
a. Formal
b. Assigned
c. Informal
d. Unassigned
Answer: c
Rationale:
Informal roles, such as mediator or tension reliever, can significantly impact group dynamics
and effectiveness.
17. Someone who is always making jokes in a group and trying to lighten the mood is taking
on what type of role?
a. Assigned
b. Unassigned
c. Formal
d. Informal
Answer: d
Rationale:
This person is taking on an informal role as a tension reliever or morale booster within the
group.
18. Ethan is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society of two-year
colleges. He wears his lapel pin to all meetings and puts on his chapter shirt when the group
goes into the community for a project. At the start of each meeting, he hugs other members
instead of a handshake or just saying hello. What do all of these actions serve to reinforce
with regard to Phi Theta Kappa’s group?
a. Cohesion
b. Identity
c. Interdependence
d. Communication practices
Answer: b
Rationale:
Ethan's actions reinforce the group's identity by displaying symbols of membership and
engaging in rituals associated with belonging to Phi Theta Kappa.
19. Which practice is central to accomplishing any group’s mission?
a. Communication
b. Independence
c. Identity
d. Interdependence
Answer: a
Rationale:
Effective communication is essential for coordinating efforts, sharing information, and
achieving common goals within a group.
20. In the film Remember the Titans, Coach Herman Boone (played by Denzel Washington),
must deal with racial issues on his football team. At one point, he wakes his players up at
3:00 a.m. to go to the battleground of Gettysburg from the Civil War. There he gives a speech,
in which he concludes, “If we don't come together, right now, on this hallowed ground, we
too will be destroyed just like they were. I don’t care if you like each other or not. But you
will respect each other. And maybe we’ll learn to play this game like men.” What
communication strategy is Boone using to bring his team together?
a. Role
b. Problem-solving
c. Consciousness-raising
d. Encounter
Answer: c
Rationale:
Boone is using consciousness-raising by taking his team to Gettysburg and delivering a
speech that challenges their perspectives, fosters understanding, and promotes unity despite
differences.
21. Two group members gossiping before a group meeting about their weekend is an example
of what type of communication?
a. Consciousness-raising
b. Encounter
c. Problem-solving
d. Role
Answer: b
Rationale:
Encounter communication refers to spontaneous and unplanned interactions among group
members. Gossiping before a meeting is an informal encounter that occurs outside the
structured context of the meeting itself.
22. Some small groups communicate _________ because their members are located in
different cities or countries and face-to-face communication is impossible.
a. slowly
b. synchronously
c. online
d. poorly
Answer: c
Rationale:
With members in different locations, online communication becomes necessary. It allows for
asynchronous communication, overcoming geographical barriers and enabling group
interaction despite physical distance.
23. Which of the following is TRUE about small groups interacting online?
a. Group members feel more confident in virtual rather than in face-to-face groups, in terms
of their ability to be productive.
b. Because e-mail allows group members to interact in real time, members feel engaged and
involved in dialogue with other members.
c. Individuals who interact with other group members online report being more committed to
the group and happier while working in it.
d. Technologies such as e-mail, texting, and videoconferencing allow online group members
to interact whenever and wherever they choose.
Answer: d
Rationale:
Online interactions offer flexibility and convenience, allowing group members to
communicate at their own pace and convenience. Technologies like email, texting, and
videoconferencing facilitate communication regardless of time and location.
24. Which of the following is NOT a function of a small group?
a. Providing services and support
b. Correcting
c. Competing
d. Creating art and ideas
Answer: b
Rationale:
Correcting is not typically considered a function of a small group. Providing services and
support, competing, and creating art and ideas are all common functions of small groups.
25. In response to the worst oil spill in U.S. history in 2010, President Barack Obama set up a
task force charged with determining the rate of oil leakage and the appropriate response. He
included leading industry experts, officials from BP (the company responsible for the spill)
and top government representatives. Because this group had a specific list of goals, it was
formed to
a. focus on discrete tasks.
b. create art and ideas.
c. help us learn.
d. promote social networking.
Answer: a
Rationale:
The task force was assembled with a clear purpose: to focus on discrete tasks related to
determining the extent of the oil spill and formulating an appropriate response strategy.
26. When Tina Wells was a high school student, she wrote product reviews for a local
newspaper. Soon, so many companies started sending her products that she assembled a
group of friends to help her test the products. By the time she graduated from college, Wells
had 250 teenagers reviewing products, and today, Buzz Marketing Group is a teen-focused
market research firm with clients such as Sony BMG, PBS, and American Eagle. Wells
recognized the power that small groups had to do which of the following?
a. Focus on discrete tasks
b. Compete
c. Evaluate and advise
d. Create art and ideas
Answer: c
Rationale:
Wells recognized the capacity of small groups to evaluate and advise, as her group of friends
assisted her in testing products and providing feedback, leading to the establishment of a
successful market research firm.
27. A string quartet and the cast of Saturday Night Live are both examples of how small
groups can effectively work together to do which of the following?
a. Promote social networking
b. Create art and ideas
c. Help us learn
d. Compete
Answer: b
Rationale:
Both examples involve small groups collaborating to create artistic content, whether it's
music in the case of the string quartet or comedy sketches in the case of Saturday Night Live.
28. Many companies and organizations use __________ groups, which are small groups of
people assembled to generate innovative ways of thinking.
a. task
b. support
c. target
d. brainstorming
Answer: d
Rationale:
Brainstorming groups are specifically designed to generate creative and innovative ideas.
They encourage members to freely express ideas without criticism, fostering creativity and
problem-solving.
29. Alcoholics Anonymous is an example of a __________ group.
a. support
b. task
c. relational
d. maintenance
Answer: a
Rationale:
Alcoholics Anonymous provides support for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction,
making it a support group where members can share experiences, provide encouragement,
and receive guidance in overcoming addiction.
30. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of a support group?
a. You can find people who understand your issue or problem because they have the same
experience.
b. Listening to others’ stories may help you feel less alone.
c. True support groups meet in person, not online.
d. Taking part in support groups for health conditions can improve health.
Answer: c
Rationale:
While many support groups do meet in person, the statement that "true" support groups must
meet in person is not accurate. Online support groups can also provide valuable support and
connection for individuals facing similar challenges. Therefore, the option stating that
support groups must meet in person is incorrect.
31. Web sites such as Facebook allow users to interact with others in groups because some
small groups
a. provide service and support.
b. create art and ideas.
c. help us learn.
d. promote social networking.
Answer: d
Rationale:
Facebook and similar websites primarily facilitate interaction for social networking purposes,
allowing users to connect, communicate, and engage with others, thus promoting social
networking.
32. Most collegiate athletic teams are formed for what purpose?
a. Creating art and ideas
b. Competing
c. Promoting social networking
d. Providing support
Answer: b
Rationale:
Collegiate athletic teams are primarily formed to compete in sports events, showcasing the
skills and talents of the team members in competitive settings.
33. We join study groups because small groups can
a. help us learn.
b. create art and ideas.
c. promote social networking.
d. provide support.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Study groups are formed to enhance learning through collaborative efforts, sharing
knowledge, discussing concepts, and providing support in understanding academic material.
34. The first group most of us belong to is
a. peers.
b. friends.
c. family.
d. domestic.
Answer: c
Rationale:
The first group most individuals belong to is their family, as it is typically the primary social
unit providing care, support, and socialization during early development.
35. Caleb is feeling insecure in his new school. He doesn’t know anyone and feels like an
outsider. Because he has always enjoyed writing, he joins the yearbook staff. Within a few
days of joining the group, Caleb feels more confident and sure of himself. Which need has
Caleb fulfilled by joining this group?
a. His need for protection
b. His need to belong
c. His need to improve
d. Pressure to join something
Answer: b
Rationale:
By joining the yearbook staff, Caleb fulfills his need to belong, as he finds a social group
where he shares interests and feels accepted, thus alleviating his feelings of insecurity and
outsider status.
36. Owen is very active in his church. When his wife dies, he loses interest in eating and
taking care of himself, so his church forms a group to help care for Owen. They bring him
food, make sure he is sleeping, and spend time with him so he knows he is not alone. Owen’s
church group understands what about their role as a small group?
a. They can improve someone’s performance.
b. They can pressure someone.
c. They can fulfill a need to belong.
d. They can provide protection.
Answer: d
Rationale:
Owen's church group provides protection by offering him emotional support, care, and
companionship during a difficult time, demonstrating the role of small groups in providing
support and assistance to individuals in need.
37. Which of the following is NOT a reason people might join a small group?
a. Need to belong
b. Need for protection
c. Pressure to join
d. Group membership can decrease their performance
Answer: d
Rationale:
People join small groups to fulfill various needs such as belonging, support, and social
interaction. Group membership typically enhances rather than decreases performance due to
shared goals, collaboration, and mutual support.
38. According to research, taking part in a weight-loss group is more effective than trying to
lose weight individually because of which of the following function of a small group?
a. Improves performance
b. Fulfills a need to belong
c. Provides protection
d. Pressures someone to join
Answer: a
Rationale:
Research suggests that participating in a weight-loss group improves performance in
achieving weight loss goals due to accountability, social support, and shared motivation
within the group.
39. Logan is assigned to a task committee at work. He is annoyed, as he feels
_______________ the group. But soon Logan makes some good friends within the
committee, and the work goes much faster than if he did it by himself.
a. the need to belong to
b. his performance is made better by
c. pressured to join
d. protected by
Answer: c
Rationale:
Initially annoyed at being assigned to the group, Logan experiences pressure to join.
However, as he forms friendships within the committee and realizes the benefits of
collaboration, his attitude shifts positively towards group participation.
40. At which phase of socialization do you apply pre-existing beliefs, attitudes, and
expectations to the new group you are joining?
a. Exit
b. Encounter
c. Antecedent
d. Anticipatory
Answer: c
Rationale:
The antecedent phase of socialization involves applying pre-existing beliefs, attitudes, and
expectations to the new group before actual interaction or membership occurs. It influences
how individuals perceive and approach group membership.
41. Claire has had negative group experiences in college. She always seems to get stuck
doing the bulk of the work, and her group members have always had terrible communication
skills. Therefore, at work, when her boss proposes putting her on a task force, she is
immediately apprehensive and fearful during the _____________ phase of socialization.
a. encounter
b. antecedent
c. anticipatory
d. assimilation
Answer: b
Rationale:
The antecedent phase of socialization involves the period prior to joining a group where one
forms initial perceptions and expectations. Claire's negative group experiences in college
have shaped her apprehension and fear, reflecting the antecedent phase where her past
experiences influence her current feelings.
42. Research has found that which phase of socialization can be stressful if you find that you
have unrealistic expectations for a group?
a. Encounter
b. Antecedent
c. Assimilation
d. Anticipatory
Answer: d
Rationale:
The anticipatory phase of socialization involves forming expectations about a group before
joining it. If these expectations are unrealistic, it can lead to stress during this phase as the
reality may not align with one's expectations.
43. The ________________ phase of socialization encompasses the first time you meet with
others as a group.
a. encounter
b. assimilation
c. exit
d. anticipatory
Answer: a
Rationale:
The encounter phase of socialization involves the initial interactions with a group, marking
the first time individuals meet and interact collectively.
44. Which of the following is NOT an important task typically addressed during the
encounter phase of socialization?
a. Establish mission
b. Assign specific roles
c. Decide on group norms
d. Remind members of expectations for behaviors
Answer: c
Rationale:
Establishing group norms is typically not addressed during the encounter phase. Instead, it's
more focused on setting initial tasks, roles, and clarifying expectations.
45. In which phase of socialization does a group acquire its own identity, when members
think of themselves not as “you and me” but as “we”?
a. Anticipatory
b. Antecedent
c. Assimilation
d. Encounter
Answer: c
Rationale:
The assimilation phase of socialization involves the group acquiring its own identity, where
individual members start identifying as part of the collective "we."
46. Isabella is new to her high school. She meets a group of girls that call themselves The
Girlie Crew. They always dress in purple or pink and refer to one another as “princess” or
“diva.” After a few weeks, Isabella tends to speak about her school experiences to her parents
not in terms of “I” but in “we,” and she always dresses in the group’s colors. Isabella is most
likely in what phase of socialization?
a. Assimilation
b. Encounter
c. Anticipatory
d. Antecedent
Answer: a
Rationale:
Isabella's adoption of the group's behaviors, language, and identity suggests she is in the
assimilation phase, where she aligns herself with the group's norms and identity.
47. Lee is on the executive board of the homeowners’ association for his neighborhood.
Although he believes there should be a governing board to make sure all homeowners are
following appropriate rules and regulations, lately he feels the association has been looking
for easy ways to make money, instigating and enforcing unfair rules. As Lee begins doubting
the effectiveness of the group, he will most likely enter which phase of socialization?
a. Encounter
b. Antecedent
c. Exit
d. Assimilation
Answer: c
Rationale:
Lee's doubts about the effectiveness of the group indicate that he is likely entering the exit
phase of socialization, where he considers leaving the group due to dissatisfaction with its
functioning.
48. Because membership in most groups has a life span, it is pretty common to enter the
______ stage of socialization at some point in a group’s evolution.
a. antecedent
b. exit
c. assimilation
d. encounter
Answer: b
Rationale:
The exit stage of socialization is common as groups evolve and members may leave due to
various reasons such as dissatisfaction or changes in circumstances.
49. Which of the following is NOT an advantage of small groups?
a. Sacrifices
b. Resources
c. Diversity
d. Synergy
Answer: a
Rationale:
Sacrifices are not typically considered an advantage of small groups. Instead, small groups
often benefit from increased resources, diversity of perspectives, and synergy among
members.
50. Accomplishing almost any task requires the availability of ___________, which are
entities that enable us to be productive.
a. resources
b. diversity
c. sacrifices
d. synergy
Answer: a
Rationale:
Resources are essential for productivity, providing the necessary means to accomplish tasks
effectively.
51. The Means and Way Committee at Temple Shalom has been very successful in its
fundraising efforts. Some members are very effective at convincing local businesses to donate
goods for an auction; some members have many community contacts that enable them to get
many people out for events; and still other members have strong organizational skills to make
sure fund-raising events such as auctions are efficient and successful. This group is using its
__________ to find success.
a. synergy
b. resources
c. diversity
d. skills
Answer: b
Rationale:
The correct answer is "b. resources." The group's success is attributed to the diverse skills and
abilities of its members, which collectively contribute to the group's resources for
fundraising. The term "resources" encompasses the various talents, connections, and
organizational abilities that the members bring to the group, enabling them to achieve their
fundraising goals effectively.
52. Which word best describes the idea that group members can accomplish more by working
together than they could individually?
a. Diversity
b. Resources
c. Conflict
d. Synergy
Answer: d
Rationale:
"d. Synergy" best describes the idea that group members can accomplish more by working
together than they could individually. Synergy refers to the combined effort of individuals
resulting in a greater outcome than the sum of their individual efforts. It highlights the
cooperative interaction among group members to achieve a common goal.
53. Which word best describes the belief that each member in a group brings a different set of
ideas, experiences, insights, and values to a discussion?
a. Synergy
b. Personalities
c. Diversity
d. Uniqueness
Answer: c
Rationale:
The correct answer is "c. Diversity." Diversity encompasses the idea that each member in a
group possesses unique perspectives, backgrounds, and skills, contributing to a richer
discussion and decision-making process. It emphasizes the value of varied viewpoints and
experiences within a group setting.
54. A shoe company isn’t sure if the ad campaign for its newest sneaker will be appealing to
its customers. The company puts together a focus group made up of individuals of different
ages, genders, sexual orientations, and ethnicities. The company knows that it might be more
difficult for this type of group to come to a consensus, but it hopes that given enough time,
the group can provide valuable information based on which of its attributes?
a. Diversity
b. Synergy
c. Resources
d. Uniqueness
Answer: a
Rationale:
The correct answer is "a. Diversity." In this scenario, the company is relying on the diverse
composition of the focus group to gather a wide range of perspectives and insights about the
ad campaign's appeal. While reaching a consensus might be challenging due to diverse
viewpoints, the company anticipates that the group's varied attributes will provide valuable
information for decision-making.
55. By campaigning together as a group for the state legislature, Paul, James, and Colin are
able to attract more votes for each of them than they could have gotten by campaigning
separately. This illustrates which principle of small group behavior?
a. Diversity
b. Conflict
c. Synergy
d. Resources
Answer: c
Rationale:
The correct answer is "c. Synergy." Campaigning together allows Paul, James, and Colin to
leverage their collective efforts to attract more votes than they could individually. Synergy in
this context refers to the combined impact of their campaigning activities leading to a more
successful outcome than if they campaigned separately.
56. What is it called when group members contribute less to the group than the average
member, particularly as the group grows in size?
a. Conflict
b. Social loafing
c. Laziness
d. Social sacrifice
Answer: b
Rationale:
The correct answer is "b. Social loafing." Social loafing occurs when individuals contribute
less effort to a group task than they would if they were working individually. This tendency
often increases as group size grows, as individuals may feel less accountable for their
contributions.
57. Rory is becoming frustrated with Andrew’s lack of participation in their club. As more
and more new members join, Andrew does less and less. It has reached a point where he
contributes almost nothing. Which of the following is the MOST effective way to deal with
this social loafer?
a. Rory should not name names, as it will only put Andrew on the defensive.
b. Rory should keep the group’s goal ambiguous to reduce pressure.
c. Rory should make the consequences clear so Andrew understands how his behavior
contributes to the group’s goal.
d. Rory should make sure to keep all conflict in the open with all the group members
involved.
Answer: c
Rationale:
The most effective way to deal with a social loafer like Andrew is to make the consequences
of their behavior clear. By clearly outlining how Andrew's lack of participation affects the
group's goals and outcomes, Rory can encourage Andrew to be more accountable for his
contributions. This approach helps address the issue directly and provides Andrew with an
understanding of the impact of his actions.
58. Whenever small groups have to make decisions, they are likely to experience some
measure of ___________ if goals are incompatible or resources are limited.
a. social loafing
b. conflict
c. arguments
d. frustration
Answer: b
Rationale:
The correct answer is "b. conflict." Conflict arises when there are differences in opinions,
goals, or resources within a group. In situations where goals are incompatible or resources are
limited, small groups are likely to experience conflict as members may have competing
interests or priorities.
59. Rose’s friend is getting married, so she’s been put in charge of collecting money from all
of their friends and buying a nice gift for the couple. Rose is running into difficulty, as her
friends can’t agree on an amount to give, and some don’t want to give as much as others. The
friends also continue to debate about which type of gift is most appropriate, a humorous one
or a sentimental one. For the group’s effort to be successful, Rose should find an effective
way to deal with the group’s
a. conflict.
b. diversity.
c. synergy.
d. opinions.
Answer: a
Rationale:
The correct answer is "a. conflict." Rose needs to find an effective way to address the
disagreement among her friends regarding the amount to give and the type of gift to purchase.
By managing and resolving the conflict within the group, Rose can ensure that their
collective effort in buying a wedding gift is successful.
60. Which of the following is NOT true about larger small groups (15 or more members)?
a. They can be difficult to coordinate.
b. Members can find it difficult to communicate efficiently with one another.
c. Larger groups tend to communicate more about their tasks than smaller groups.
d. Larger groups may find it necessary to divide their work, assigning specific tasks to pairs
of people who can more easily coordinate their schedules.
Answer: c
Rationale:
The correct answer is "c." Larger groups tend to communicate less effectively about their
tasks compared to smaller groups. As group size increases, communication can become more
challenging due to greater complexity and the potential for information overload. Therefore,
larger groups may struggle to communicate efficiently compared to smaller groups.
61. Becoming part of a small group requires more than signing one’s name to a membership
roster—new members must also be ______________ into the group.
a. hazed
b. welcomed
c. socialized
d. instructed
Answer: c
Rationale:
Socialization involves the process of integrating new members into a group by familiarizing
them with the group's norms, values, expectations, and culture. It goes beyond mere
membership and involves adapting to the group's dynamics and practices.
62. Which of the following is NOT a way to socialize a new member into a group?
a. Be a mentor.
b. Let new members join activities slowly.
c. Create a group orientation.
d. Recruit good members.
Answer: b
Rationale:
All the options listed are methods to socialize a new member into a group except for "Let
new members join activities slowly." This option does not actively engage new members in
the socialization process but rather delays their involvement.
63. Opal is the president of her son’s elementary school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).
She makes a concerted effort to _________ new members to the group by offering new
member orientations twice a year, calling new members personally to invite them to
upcoming activities, and setting up a mentor program between new members and those in
their final year of service.
a. acclimate
b. orient
c. welcome
d. socialize
Answer: d
Rationale:
Opal's actions aim to socialize new members into the group by providing orientation sessions,
personal invitations, and mentorship opportunities. This facilitates their integration into the
group's activities and culture.
64. If you’ve made the effort to join a small group, you probably already support that group’s
goals, norms, values, and behaviors, because you are
a. learning what matters.
b. contributing to the group.
c. embracing the group’s culture.
d. acquiring appropriate skills.
Answer: c
Rationale:
By embracing the group's culture, including its goals, norms, values, and behaviors, a
member demonstrates alignment and acceptance of the group's identity and purpose.
65. Sienna joins a sorority on her campus. The group has many goals, including upholding
strong scholarship, embracing diversity, and helping in the community. Sienna studies a lot to
make sure she can meet the first goal, but finds that she still isn’t quite fitting in. After
observing her sorority sisters for a few days, she realizes that this particular group is more
focused on helping in the community. It would have helped Sienna socialize herself more to
have first ________________ to the sorority.
a. learned what matters.
b. contributed to the group.
c. acquired appropriate skills.
d. embraced the group’s culture.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Learning what matters to the sorority, in this case, its primary focus on community service,
would have helped Sienna better align her efforts and behavior with the group's values and
objectives, facilitating her socialization into the sorority.
66. If you are to become an active member of a group, you’ll need to __________________
so you can carry out your role and responsibilities.
a. learn what matters
b. embrace the group’s culture
c. contribute to the group
d. acquire appropriate skills
Answer: d
Rationale:
Acquiring appropriate skills is essential for fulfilling one's role and responsibilities within a
group, enabling effective participation and contribution.
67. If someone in your group receives good news or achieves a goal, you should ask if you
can share the news with the group. By doing this, you are doing what to contribute to a
constructive group environment?
a. Building group cohesion
b. Celebrating success
c. Defusing stress
d. Respecting others
Answer: b
Rationale:
Celebrating success fosters a positive atmosphere within the group, boosts morale, and
reinforces the sense of achievement and camaraderie among members.
68. Danielle is in a small group with Leighton in their sociology class. Danielle finds
Leighton to be abrasive and completely disagrees with her on a lot of what she says. Danielle
decides that, to keep the group environment constructive, she will find the positive aspects in
what Leighton says and celebrate the diversity in the group. What method is Danielle using to
keep group communication positive?
a. Respecting others
b. Celebrating success
c. Defusing stress
d. Building group cohesion
Answer: a
Rationale:
Danielle is demonstrating respect for others by acknowledging the diversity of opinions
within the group and finding positive aspects in Leighton's contributions despite their
disagreements. This helps maintain a constructive communication environment.
69. When group members concentrate on their shared objectives, group cohesiveness
increases because the group is
a. keeping track of progress.
b. celebrating success.
c. emphasizing collective goals.
d. reminding others of their value to the group.
Answer: c
Rationale:
Emphasizing collective goals reinforces the sense of unity and purpose among group
members, leading to increased group cohesiveness as they work together towards achieving
shared objectives.
Test Bank for Communication Matters
Kory Floyd
9780078036866, 9781259707766
