Utah Special Function Officer (SFO) Practice Exam

What factor can inhibit intervention within an agency?

1. Team cohesion

2. Peer pressure

3. Strong leadership

4. Well-defined policies

The correct answer is: Peer pressure

Peer pressure can inhibit intervention within an agency by creating a social dynamic where individuals feel compelled to conform to the behaviors and attitudes of their colleagues. This phenomenon may lead to reluctance in speaking up or taking action, particularly when the prevailing sentiment among peers is to downplay issues or avoid confronting problems. When employees prioritize acceptance and approval from their peers over the ethical considerations of their roles, it can create an environment where necessary interventions are overlooked or ignored. On the other hand, team cohesion, strong leadership, and well-defined policies typically establish a supportive framework for open communication and accountability. In a cohesive team, members are more likely to feel secure in raising concerns and intervening when issues arise. Strong leadership fosters a culture that values transparency and ethical behavior, empowering individuals to act responsibly. Similarly, clear policies provide guidance on how to address problems, making interventions more structured and less reliant on individual courage alone.