According to Nolan, what is the primary goal the leader aims to achieve by confronting?

• A. To promote honest self-investigation
• B. To maintain harmony
• C. To suppress conflict
• D. To avoid self-criticism

Answer: (A)

In Nolan’s view, the leader uses confrontation primarily to stimulate honest self-investigation. By directly pointing out patterns of behavior, assumptions, or defensiveness, the leader invites group members to look inward, acknowledge how their actions affect others, and take responsibility for change. This approach values truth and personal growth over simply keeping things smooth or avoiding discomfort. When confrontation is used in this way, it helps individuals become more self-aware, which in turn can lead to healthier group dynamics. If the goal were to keep harmony, suppress conflict, or dodge self-criticism, the process would miss the essential purpose of triggering genuine reflection and accountability.