Which of the following describes information processing biases in group settings?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the UCF MAN6245 Organizational Behavior and Development Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with helpful hints and explanations to enhance your understanding. Ace your test with our comprehensive study guide!

The correct choice identifies the phenomenon where a small subset of the group contributes disproportionately to the discussion, which can lead to what is known as "information processing biases." This means that in group settings, communication dynamics can heavily influence how information is shared, interpreted, and utilized in decision-making.

When only a minority does the majority of the talking, it can skew the understanding of the group's collective knowledge and experiences, ultimately affecting the quality of the decisions made. This can lead to scenarios where the perspectives and insights of the quieter members are overlooked or ignored, which can impede the group’s ability to process all relevant information effectively.

In contrast, the other options touch upon important aspects of group dynamics but do not encapsulate this specific form of information processing bias. For instance, while group members avoiding discussion of shared information can indeed suggest bias, it doesn't necessarily relate to the talking dynamics that are central to the correct answer. Similarly, stating that decisions are influenced by external factors only, or that majority opinions can form without discussion, doesn't adequately capture the essence of how biases manifest in information sharing and communication within the group environment.