Civil Service Personality Practice Test

What best describes the respondent's reaction to being criticized?

1. They accept it positively

2. They ignore it

3. They become defensive

4. It affects their confidence

The correct answer is: They become defensive

The best description of the respondent's reaction to being criticized is that they become defensive. When individuals react defensively, it often indicates that they perceive the criticism as a personal attack or as a threat to their self-esteem or competence. This defensive response can manifest in various ways, such as justifying their actions, counterattacking, or dismissing the validity of the critique. Defensiveness can stem from a lack of confidence or fear of being judged, leading the individual to protect themselves emotionally. While some may accept criticism positively or choose to ignore it, a defensive reaction suggests a more immediate and emotional response to critique, indicating a struggle to process the feedback constructively. In contrast, the options of accepting criticism positively or ignoring it represent more balanced and open approaches to feedback, which are not aligned with a defensive stance.