Grapevine informal network – UGC NET Question

The grapevine is the informal communication network that develops spontaneously within organisations. It carries rumours,gossip and unofficial information through personal contacts. Because it is not officially authorised,it often spreads faster but may be less accurate. The stem describes exactly this kind of unplanned flow,so it is called the grapevine network.

Option A:
Formal network refers to the planned,official channels defined by the organisation’s structure,such as memos and meetings. These are not the unplanned exchanges described in the stem.

Option B:
Vertical communication emphasises upward or downward direction along the hierarchy,which can be either formal or informal,but the term does not capture the rumour-based nature of the grapevine.

Option C:
Diagonal communication cuts across departmental lines and levels,but may still be formal,so it is not the best term for spontaneous rumours.

Option D:
Grapevine networks can influence morale and attitudes significantly,which is why understanding them is important in communication studies,making option C correct.