Answer to Question 1
ANS: C
Conflict behaviors can occur as a result of age differences, differences in values, philosophical approaches to life, ways of handling problems, lifestyles, definitions of a problem, goals, or strategies to resolve a problem. These differences cause friction and turn relationships from collaborative to competitive. Sharing feelings about a conflict with others helps to reduce its intensity. Generally, conflict increases anxiety. When interaction with a certain peer or peer group stimulates anxious or angry feelings, the presence of conflict should be considered. Once it is determined that conflict is present, a person should look for the basis of the conflict and label it as personal or professional. If it is personal in nature, it may not be appropriate to seek peer negotiation.
Answer to Question 2
ANS: C
Recognizing a putdown or unwarranted criticism is the first step toward dealing effectively with it. If a comment from a coworker or authority figure generates defensiveness or embarrassment, it is likely that the comment represents more than just factual information about performance. When faced with unwarranted criticism, the automatic response of many individuals is to become defensive and embarrassed and in some way actually begin to feel inadequate, thus allowing the speaker to project unwarranted feelings onto the nurse. The putdown or criticism may be handed out because the speaker is feeling inadequate or threatened. Often it has little to do with the actual behavior of the nurse to whom it is delivered.