Question 16

An employee continues to follow old methods due to uncertainty about adapting to new business vision.

This scenario illustrates passive resistance as the worker desires change but is hindered by a lack of understanding on how to implement it, leading to adherence to outdated practices.

A) A manager avoids employee resistance to change initiatives by presenting a modified version of the company's vision for change.

This option describes an active effort by the manager to mitigate resistance, which is contrary to the concept of passive resistance. Instead of resisting change passively, the manager is proactively addressing potential objections by modifying the vision, thereby facilitating the change process.

B) An executive believes so strongly in the need for a particular change that the executive refuses to take questions from any employee who does not feel the same way.

This scenario depicts an authoritarian approach rather than passive resistance. The executive is actively dismissing dissent and not engaging in dialogue, which does not reflect the passive nature of resistance characterized by inaction or compliance without agreement.

C) An employee resents the lack of information provided by leadership and refuses to comply with new policies.

While this option indicates resistance to change, it is more of an active form of resistance rather than passive. The employee's refusal to comply is a direct action against the changes, demonstrating active dissent rather than the passive adherence to old methods seen in the correct answer.

D) A worker wants to change, but the worker does not know how to adapt current methods to the business vision and so continues to follow old methods.

This option accurately captures passive resistance. The worker's desire for change is obstructed by uncertainty and a lack of guidance, resulting in continued use of outdated methods without actively opposing the change.

Conclusion

Option D is the definitive example of passive resistance as the employee's indecision and lack of knowledge prevent engagement with new practices, leading to a continuation of old methods. In contrast, other options either depict active resistance or efforts to manage resistance, failing to encapsulate the essence of passive resistance.