In the Context of a Firm's Vertical Structure, a Powerful

question 93

Multiple Choice

In the context of a firm's vertical structure, a powerful trend for U.S. businesses over the past few decades has been to

• A) reduce the number of hierarchical layers.
• B) replace flat organizational structures with tall organizational structures.
• C) increase the number of reporting levels.
• D) increase formalization.
• E) limit decision-making authority to top management.

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Definitions:

Copying

The act of reproducing or imitating another's work or behavior. In a new definition: An essential learning process involving the replication of patterns, behaviors, or information observed in others.

Defense Mechanism

Unconscious psychological strategies used to cope with reality and maintain self-image.

Rationalization

An ego defense mechanism in which one creates acceptable reasons for unwanted or undesirable behavior.

Intellectualization

A defense mechanism in which reasoning is used to block confrontation with an unconscious conflict and its associated emotional stress.