Question

In ______ feedback, the receiver provides nonevaluative information to the communicator.

a) Role ambiguity.
b) Corrective.
c) Informational.
d) Reinforcing.
e) Role clarity.

Answer 1

Informational feedback is nonevaluative information provided by the receiver to the communicator. This kind of feedback is fact-based and does not include judgment or criticism, distinguishing it from corrective or reinforcing feedback.

Step-by-step explanation:

In informational feedback, the receiver provides nonevaluative information to the communicator. This contrasts with other forms of feedback, such as corrective or reinforcing feedback, which may include evaluation or aim to shape future behavior. Informational feedback is intended to enlighten the communicator with facts or data that are not laden with judgment or criticism. Understanding informational feedback can be essential in various group dynamics and communication settings.

For instance, in the Asch experiment, participants conformed due to normative influences, which is distinct from informational conformity. Participants felt pressured to align with the group's consensus despite knowing that the consensus was wrong.

Another aspect of group dynamics is the influence of sanctions. Informal positive sanctions might encourage a behavior through praise or rewards, while informal negative sanctions might discourage a behavior through disapproval or social ostracism. Formal sanctions usually involve organizational or legal systems and consequences.

Furthermore, the type of group leadership can affect communication patterns within a group. An authoritarian leadership style will have a communication pattern that flows from the top down, as opposed to a more participative democratic style or a hands-off laissez-faire approach.

Answer 2

The correct answer is c. Informational. Informational feedback involves providing factual information without evaluation or judgment. It differs from corrective or reinforcing feedback, with the purpose being to inform rather than to instruct, correct, or affirm behavior.

Step-by-step explanation:

Feedback is a critical component of communication, especially within organizational settings and interpersonal interactions. There are different types of feedback, each with its own purpose and characteristics. Informational feedback is about providing factual and neutral feedback without evaluating the recipient. It is meant to inform the communicator about the impact of their actions or the results of their efforts without imposing judgments or suggesting corrections.

For example, if an employee submits a report, informational feedback might be confirming that the report was received and listing the sections that need completion. This contrasts with corrective feedback, where the focus is on what can be improved or corrected. Reinforcing feedback, on the other hand, is about validating what was done well and encouraging similar actions in the future.

In studies such as the Asch experiment, we learn about norms and influences such as normative pressures where people conform to the expectations of others. These principles are distinct from informational feedback which is fundamentally nonjudgmental and aimed at informing rather than influencing or shaping behavior.