What is an example of defensive behavior in the workplace?

Defensive behavior in the workplace typically manifests as actions that individuals take to protect themselves from perceived threats, criticism, or challenges, often at the expense of openness and innovation. Excessive conformity exemplifies this type of behavior because it reflects an individual's strong desire to fit in and avoid standing out in a way that could attract negative attention. This can lead to a stifling of creativity and independent thought, as individuals may adhere strictly to group norms rather than expressing their own ideas or concerns.

The context for this behavior includes environments where the culture promotes rigid adherence to rules and expectations, potentially leading to a lack of diverse perspectives. In such cases, employees may feel that deviating from the norm could put their job security at risk, thus promoting a mindset focused on defensive conformity.

The other options provided, like seeking collaboration, encouraging teamwork, and pursuing genuine feedback, are all positive behaviors that typically foster an open and constructive work environment. These actions are aimed at building relationships and enhancing communication among team members, which counteracts the essence of defensive behavior.