Which of the following is an example of a face threat in social psychology?

• A. A teacher privately gives constructive feedback to a student after class.
• B. A friend compliments you on your new haircut in front of others.
• C. A supervisor publicly criticizes an employee's work performance during a team meeting.
• D. A colleague agrees with your opinion during a group discussion.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'face threat' in social psychology, which refers to actions or communications that challenge or damage a person's social self-image or 'face'—their desired public identity.
2. Review each option to identify whether it involves a situation where someone's social image or self-esteem is potentially harmed or challenged.
3. Analyze the first option: a teacher giving private constructive feedback is generally supportive and does not publicly challenge the student's social image, so it is unlikely to be a face threat.
4. Consider the second option: a friend complimenting you publicly enhances your social image, so it is not a face threat but rather a positive social interaction.
5. Evaluate the third option: a supervisor publicly criticizing an employee's work during a team meeting directly challenges the employee's social image in front of others, which fits the definition of a face threat.