Critical Thinking and Managerial Decision Making

Decision Making 1
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Assessment Tile: Critical Thinking and Managerial Decision Making
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Decision Making 2
Introduction
The reflective essay focuses on to critically review the different theories that have been studied
along the period. Further, it would focus on evaluating the practical applications of the
theoretical underpinnings while also in understanding personal strengths and weaknesses and
thereby generate a plan for self development.
Critical Review of Key Concepts/Theories
Johari Window
The concept of Johari Window was first introduced by Joseph Luft and his partner Harry Ingham
during 1955. The same is reflected below.

Decision Making 3
(Apricot Training Management Ltd., 2013)
The above theory gains needed significance from the individual point-of-view in that it
contributes in the development of self awareness, helps in improving communication with others,
develops interpersonal relationships based on self understanding both from the views of self and
others, helps in working in a team framework and also contributes in team development,
enhances the level of inter and intra-group dynamics and also fosters group relationships (West

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& Turner, 2010). Further, Johari Window as a model stresses on the development of soft skill
sets like behavioral patterns, empathy, increasing co-operation and also helps in developing both
along inter-group and interpersonal levels (Apricot Training Management Ltd., 2013).
Theory of Self Efficacy
The theory of self efficacy was introduced by Albert Bandura. He pointed to around four
different sources of beliefs regarding self efficacy. The ‘Mastery Experiences’ indicate the use of
potential effort for overcoming difficulties and thereby gaining needed mastery over a specific
task or situation. In terms of ‘Vicarious Experiences’ self efficacy is developed through
following role models such that it motivates individuals to exploit their capabilities for gaining
mastery (Barrett, 2011). It helps in triggering needed confidence in an individual. Evaluation of
emotional states in an individual reflects that the incidence of depression tends to affect one’s
capabilities and thereby affects the performances. Finally, the role of teachers and coaches are
also indicated wherein persuasion generated by them actively helps an individual in putting their
best for gaining success in their life and career (Schwarzer, 2014).
Decision Making Concepts
The decision making model ideally contributes in understanding the different types of decision-
making patterns associated to diverse environments like simple, complex, complicated and also
chaotic. In simpler environments the need for development of communication channels, letting
go of assumptions and also in following set of good practices are highlighted. In complicated
environments the need for involving both internal and external stakeholder groups and also the
incorporation of tools for encouraging people do out-of-the-box thinking is emphasized (Saha,
2013). Similarly, in cases of complex environments, the need for different approaches is stressed