Status and power barriers in institutions – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B and C are correct, whereas D is incorrect. A is true because large status gaps can make subordinates hesitant to share honest opinions. B is true since fear of negative judgment may cause teachers to modify or suppress information in upward communication. C is true as a power-centred climate creates risk in voicing disagreement, thereby restricting open dialogue. D is false because participative mechanisms, such as committees and consultations, can help reduce power-related barriers even in hierarchical settings.

Option A:
Option A includes A and B but omits C, ignoring the effect of a power-centred climate on dissent. While A and B are correct, failing to include C means the option does not present the full range of status and power-related barriers discussed. Hence A and B only is incomplete.

Option B:
Option B groups B and C only and leaves out A, neglecting the barrier created by excessive status distance between administrators and teachers. Since A is also a correct statement, this combination does not capture all relevant barriers. Therefore B and C only cannot be accepted.

Option C:
Option C combines A and C only but omits B, overlooking the role of fear of evaluation in distorting upward messages. Without B, the portrayal of power-related barriers is not comprehensive. Consequently A and C only is not the correct answer.

Option D:
Option D brings together A, B and C while excluding D, which wrongly claims that barriers cannot be reduced. This option recognises the main power-related obstacles and rejects the defeatist view that nothing can be improved. As it contains all and only the correct statements, A, B and C only is the right answer.