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COMM 450 MIDTERM PART 1 EXAM
2026 LATEST QUESTIONS AND
ANSWERS| ACE YOUR GRADES.
Why do humans tell stories and use metaphors? - correct answer
-they help explain complex situations to others by relating them to
known ideas.
Positive and Negative views of conflict - correct answer -how we
perceive conflict influences how we react to it.
Definition of conflict (all 5 elements) - correct answer -1) an
expressed struggle 2) between at least 2 interdependent parties
3) who perceive incompatible goals, 4) scarce resources, 5) or
interference from others in achieving their goals.
Creating a Supportive vs Defensive Climate - correct answer -
support neutralizes defensiveness
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Evaluation rather than description - correct answer -causes other
to feel judgment and become defensive.
Control rather than problem-solving - correct answer -can shut
down communication
Strategy rather than spontaneity - correct answer -strategic
communication makes the other feel manipulated or managed.
Neutrality rather than empathy - correct answer -impersonal,
distant, dismissive of the other
Superiority rather than equality - correct answer -talking down to
the other
Certainty rather than provisionalism - correct answer -inflexibility
Escalatory Spirals - correct answer -begins as an exchange of
opposing views, but deteriorates into an intense, careless
COMM 450 MIDTERM PART 1 EXAM
2026 LATEST QUESTIONS AND
ANSWERS| ACE YOUR GRADES.
Why do humans tell stories and use metaphors? - correct answer
-they help explain complex situations to others by relating them to
known ideas.
Positive and Negative views of conflict - correct answer -how we
perceive conflict influences how we react to it.
Definition of conflict (all 5 elements) - correct answer -1) an
expressed struggle 2) between at least 2 interdependent parties
3) who perceive incompatible goals, 4) scarce resources, 5) or
interference from others in achieving their goals.
Creating a Supportive vs Defensive Climate - correct answer -
support neutralizes defensiveness
, Page | 2
Evaluation rather than description - correct answer -causes other
to feel judgment and become defensive.
Control rather than problem-solving - correct answer -can shut
down communication
Strategy rather than spontaneity - correct answer -strategic
communication makes the other feel manipulated or managed.
Neutrality rather than empathy - correct answer -impersonal,
distant, dismissive of the other
Superiority rather than equality - correct answer -talking down to
the other
Certainty rather than provisionalism - correct answer -inflexibility
Escalatory Spirals - correct answer -begins as an exchange of
opposing views, but deteriorates into an intense, careless
