Explain the differences between primary and secondary tensions, including what produces each type and the observable symptoms of it.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

1. Primary tension results from the interpersonal relationships among members and is described as "the social unease and stiffness that accompanies getting acquainted." 13 Primary tension shows up as extreme politeness, apparent boredom, yawning and sighing, frequent long pauses, and tentative statements uttered in soft tones. The symptoms of primary tension is politeness and apparent boredom are only a façade covering the tensions we all feel when we are with people we don't know well. If these tensions are not managed effectively, groups may become stuck in patterns of over-politeness, formality, and hesitancy to disagree, which can impair their ability to think critically when they need to. (5).
2. Secondary tension is work-related tension found in the differences of opinion among members as they seek to accomplish their task. It is inevitable, because members perceive problems differently and disagree about goals, the means for achieving them, and the criteria they use to evaluate ideas. These tensions are the direct result of the need to make decisions as a group. Secondary tension looks and sounds different from primary tension. Disagreement becomes more direct. Voices become loud and strained. There may be long pauses followed by two or more members' talking at once. Members twist and fidget in their seats, bang fists on the table, wave their arms, interrupt each other, move away from each other, and may even leave the room. They may try to shout each other down, call each other names, or aggressively question each other's intelligence or motives. Some may be very vocal while others may sit stiffly and awkwardly, not knowing what to do. (5). (up to 10 points total)