COM 101 Exam 3 V1 | COM 101 Intro to
Communication | StraighterLine | Q&A
with Rationale (StraighterLine COM101
Exam 3)
1. Which of the following is the most accurate definition of a ‘small group’ in communication
studies?
A. A collection of two people working together
B. A gathering of 3 to 15 people who share a common purpose
C. Any group of people waiting for a bus at a station
D. A large organization with over 50 employees
Answer: B
Rationale: In communication studies, a small group is defined by its size, typically ranging
from 3 to 15 members. These individuals must interact with one another and share a
common goal or purpose. This definition excludes dyads, which consist of only two people,
and large crowds that lack a shared goal.
2. When a group prioritizes harmony and consensus over the critical evaluation of ideas, what
phenomenon is occurring?
A. Groupthink
B. Social Loafing
,C. Synergy
D. Brainstorming
Answer: A
Rationale: Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon where the desire for group
cohesion overrides realistic appraisal of alternatives. This often leads to flawed decision-
making because dissenting voices are silenced or ignored. It is most common in highly
cohesive groups that are under pressure to reach a quick decision.
3. During which stage of Tuckman’s group development model do members typically
experience conflict as they compete for roles?
A. Forming
B. Norming
C. Storming
D. Performing
Answer: C
Rationale: The storming stage is characterized by competition and conflict as individual
personalities and ideas clash. Members begin to push against the boundaries established in
the forming stage and vie for status or influence. Successful navigation of this stage is
necessary for the group to establish effective norms later on.
, 4. Which leadership style is characterized by a leader who makes decisions independently
without consulting group members?
A. Autocratic
B. Laissez-faire
C. Democratic
D. Transformational
Answer: A
Rationale: An autocratic leader maintains total control over decision-making and provides
little to no opportunity for member input. This style can be efficient in crisis situations
where quick action is required. However, it often leads to low morale and stifles creativity
within the group over the long term.
5. What is the term for the tendency of some group members to exert less effort than they
would if working individually?
A. Cohesion
B. Synergy
C. Social Loafing
D. Interdependence
Answer: C
Communication | StraighterLine | Q&A
with Rationale (StraighterLine COM101
Exam 3)
1. Which of the following is the most accurate definition of a ‘small group’ in communication
studies?
A. A collection of two people working together
B. A gathering of 3 to 15 people who share a common purpose
C. Any group of people waiting for a bus at a station
D. A large organization with over 50 employees
Answer: B
Rationale: In communication studies, a small group is defined by its size, typically ranging
from 3 to 15 members. These individuals must interact with one another and share a
common goal or purpose. This definition excludes dyads, which consist of only two people,
and large crowds that lack a shared goal.
2. When a group prioritizes harmony and consensus over the critical evaluation of ideas, what
phenomenon is occurring?
A. Groupthink
B. Social Loafing
,C. Synergy
D. Brainstorming
Answer: A
Rationale: Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon where the desire for group
cohesion overrides realistic appraisal of alternatives. This often leads to flawed decision-
making because dissenting voices are silenced or ignored. It is most common in highly
cohesive groups that are under pressure to reach a quick decision.
3. During which stage of Tuckman’s group development model do members typically
experience conflict as they compete for roles?
A. Forming
B. Norming
C. Storming
D. Performing
Answer: C
Rationale: The storming stage is characterized by competition and conflict as individual
personalities and ideas clash. Members begin to push against the boundaries established in
the forming stage and vie for status or influence. Successful navigation of this stage is
necessary for the group to establish effective norms later on.
, 4. Which leadership style is characterized by a leader who makes decisions independently
without consulting group members?
A. Autocratic
B. Laissez-faire
C. Democratic
D. Transformational
Answer: A
Rationale: An autocratic leader maintains total control over decision-making and provides
little to no opportunity for member input. This style can be efficient in crisis situations
where quick action is required. However, it often leads to low morale and stifles creativity
within the group over the long term.
5. What is the term for the tendency of some group members to exert less effort than they
would if working individually?
A. Cohesion
B. Synergy
C. Social Loafing
D. Interdependence
Answer: C
