Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which statement describes an effective team-building approach regarding conflict resolution?

1. Encourages critical thinking among members

2. Promotes complete consensus before action

3. Discourages individual contributions

4. Allows dominance of loudest voices

The correct answer is: Encourages critical thinking among members

Encouraging critical thinking among team members is a fundamental aspect of effective team-building, especially in the context of conflict resolution. This approach fosters an environment where individuals feel empowered to express their ideas, challenge assumptions, and explore different perspectives. When critical thinking is encouraged, team members engage in thoughtful discussions that can lead to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of complex issues. Promoting critical thinking helps ensure that all voices are heard and considered, which can diffuse tensions that often arise during conflicts. By valuing diverse opinions and encouraging thoughtful debate, teams can constructively address disagreements and find compromises that strengthen their collaborative efforts. In contrast, seeking complete consensus before taking action can lead to decision-making paralysis and may prevent timely resolutions. Discouraging individual contributions stifles creativity and innovation, as it suppresses the unique perspectives that each member can bring to the table. Allowing the dominance of the loudest voices undermines the collaborative process and can alienate quieter team members, leading to imbalanced team dynamics and unresolved conflicts.