Final answer:
Individuals who ignore important information related to performance threats or opportunities and prefer not to make decisions are known as problem avoiders. Problem avoiders often miss out on critical information that could prevent or create opportunities for an organization. It is important for individuals and organizations to be aware of and actively address performance-related issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals who ignore information that signals the presence of a performance threat or opportunity, and who prefer not to make decisions, are referred to as problem avoiders. These individuals tend to overlook or disregard details that could be critical in identifying potential issues or opportunities within an organization. Problem avoiders may be resistant to change, avoiding the stress and responsibility that can come with acknowledging and addressing challenges. In contrast, problem seekers are proactive and seek out potential issues before they become critical, while lazy managers may be unwilling to exert the effort needed to solve problems, and problem solvers engage actively in finding solutions.
The concept of problem avoidance can relate to various predispositions such as the free rider problem, where individuals benefit from the group's effort without contributing, and statistical discrimination, where decision-making might be impaired due to relying on imperfect information or stereotypes. Organizations often encourage proactive behavior and decision-making, recognizing that a willingness to address problems can significantly enhance individual and group performance.