When using brainstorming to solve a problem, encourage team members to be:

When using brainstorming to solve a problem, encourage team members to be:

• A. Comments should be open and honest to foster trust
• B. Responsible for defining what is unethical or discriminatory behaviors within the department
• C. Open and honest, but allowed to publicly criticize personnel who volunteer unusable suggestions
• D. Vocal when they question or object to an assignment because they do not agree with the end goals

Answer: (A)

Open and honest comments foster trust, which is essential for an effective brainstorming session. When team members feel safe to share ideas—even unconventional ones—without fear of ridicule or punishment, they contribute more freely. This psychological safety expands the range of perspectives the group considers, leading to more creative and workable solutions.

The other approaches disrupt that environment. Defining what counts as unethical behavior within the team shifts the focus from problem solving to policing, which can suppress participation. Publicly criticizing volunteers’ ideas undermines trust and makes people hesitant to contribute. Objecting to end goals during brainstorming can derail the session and limit exploration of possible paths to a better solution.