MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 126: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 126

6. Which of the following best describes the impression management strategy of aligning actions?

  • A. Adhering to the behaviors that are expected for a given role in society
  • B. Relieving tension brought about by holding conflicting views in one's head
  • C. Providing socially acceptable reasons to explain unexpected behavior
  • D. Dictating that members of a group should follow similar practices to one another

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Aligning actions is an impression management technique in which one provides socially acceptable reasons for unexpected behavior. This may manifest as providing an excuse for poor performance or laughing off an inappropriate comment as a joke. Tension created from having conflicting thoughts or opinions, as mentioned in choice (B), refers to cognitive dissonance.

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