Abilene Paradox

Paper Summary:

The paper analyzes the problems described in the Abilene Paradox, how the theory applies to the writer's own behavior and how he can correct problems within group-orientated environments. The writer therefore shows how the Abilene Paradox is an important lesson in management communication that will be useful in everyday life and in future work experiences.

Outline:
Analysis of Abilene Paradox
Analysis of My Behavior
Solutions for the Problem
Analysis of Group Experience
Different Ways to Look at Confrontation
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Communication is one of the most important management skills and it is a key factor for making a team or an organization successful. The Abilene Paradox, developed by Jerry Harvey, deals with the common phenomenon of miscommunication in group collectives. More precisely, the Abilene Paradox pertains to the inability to manage agreement which, in turn, leads to a group's or an organization's failure. Although agreements as well as disagreements can be a problem in decision making, the former case may be more challenging than the later case because of the nature of human beings."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Harvey, J. B. (1974). The Abilene Paradox: The Management of Agreement. In W. E. Natemeyer, & J. T. McMahon, Classics of Organizational Behavior (pp. 224-240). Long Grove, IL: Waveland Press.

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• Article Review # 97228 : "The Abilene Paradox"--A Review"
• Analytical Essay # 136207 : "Personal Management Skills"
• Essay # 84635 : "Kierkegaard's Paradox"

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