In the context of stress and group dynamics, under which circumstances is spurring constructive conflict most beneficial?

• A. When a group is experiencing groupthink and needs to encourage diverse perspectives
• B. When a team is already overwhelmed by excessive stress and tension
• C. When all group members already agree on the best course of action
• D. When the goal is to increase hostility and competition among team members

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of constructive conflict, which refers to healthy, productive disagreements that encourage diverse viewpoints and critical thinking within a group.
2. Step 2: Recognize the problem of groupthink, a psychological phenomenon where the desire for harmony or conformity results in irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcomes because dissenting opinions are suppressed.
3. Step 3: Identify that spurring constructive conflict is most beneficial when a group is experiencing groupthink, as it helps break the consensus and encourages members to share different perspectives.
4. Step 4: Consider situations where the group is already overwhelmed by stress or where all members agree, as in these cases, introducing conflict may be harmful rather than helpful.
5. Step 5: Conclude that encouraging constructive conflict is not about increasing hostility or competition, but about fostering open dialogue to improve decision-making and group dynamics.