Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

A group member acting as a gatekeeper will likely do which of the following?

1. Seek and accept the authority of others

2. Guide and direct the group activity

3. Control outsiders access to the group

4. Focus the movement toward the main work of the group

The correct answer is: Control outsiders access to the group

A group member acting as a gatekeeper plays a critical role in regulating who has access to the group and what information or individuals can enter or participate in the group's activities. This function is essential in maintaining the group's focus and ensuring that only relevant contributions are considered. The gatekeeper ensures that external influences do not disrupt the dynamics of the group, keeping the environment conducive to effective dialogue and progress. By controlling access, the gatekeeper helps to manage the flow of interaction, which can enhance the group's efficiency and allow members to work towards their shared goals without unnecessary interruptions or distractions from outside sources. This role is particularly important in settings where a group may need to protect its discussions or decisions from external pressures or influences that could skew their objectives or outcomes.