In cognitive psychology, what is the ultimate result of the mum effect?

• A. Group members experience increased trust and transparency.
• B. Positive feedback is ignored in favor of criticism.
• C. Important negative information is withheld, leading to poor decision-making.
• D. Individuals become more likely to share bad news openly.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the mum effect as a concept in cognitive psychology, which refers to the tendency of individuals to withhold negative or bad news in communication.
2. Step 2: Recognize that this withholding behavior is often motivated by a desire to avoid conflict, discomfort, or negative consequences associated with delivering bad news.
3. Step 3: Analyze the consequences of the mum effect, focusing on how withholding important negative information can impact group dynamics and decision-making processes.
4. Step 4: Connect the mum effect to its ultimate result: when important negative information is not shared, it can lead to poor decision-making because the group lacks critical data needed to evaluate situations accurately.
5. Step 5: Contrast this with incorrect options, such as increased trust or open sharing of bad news, which are not consistent with the mum effect's definition and outcomes.