Which management approach involves suspending criticism for a while and actively praising the employee?

• A. Encouraging
• B. Reprimanding
• C. Coaching
• D. Understanding the task

Answer: (A)

Positive reinforcement is the idea behind this management style. By suspending criticism for a while and actively praising what the employee is doing well, you create a supportive environment that boosts motivation and confidence. This approach helps the individual feel valued and capable, which can lead to better performance as they experience positive feedback and clearer examples of success. Praise serves to reinforce desirable behaviors and performance, making the employee more likely to repeat those actions.

Reprimanding, on the other hand, focuses on faults and negative feedback, which can reduce motivation and increase defensiveness. Coaching involves guiding and developing skills through a mix of feedback, questions, and support, but it typically includes ongoing constructive feedback rather than pausing criticism entirely. Understanding the task isn’t a management approach for shaping behavior; it’s about clarifying what needs to be done, not about how to motivate or reinforce performance.