Which statement is not true according to the authors?

• A. Consequences should be timely and proportionate.
• B. Leaders must ensure consequences for failing to meet standards are immediate and severe.
• C. Consequences should be fair and consistent.
• D. Consequences should be aligned with the nature of the violation.

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how consequences should function as a fair, learning-oriented response to rule violations. The best approach is to ensure consequences are timely, proportionate to the violation, fair and consistent across people, and aligned with the nature of what was violated. Consequences that are immediate and severe don’t fit this pattern because they treat all infractions the same way, regardless of context, severity, or history. That can erode trust and may not effectively support behavior change. A more effective strategy uses a range of responses—coaching or reminders for minor issues, with escalation for repeated or serious violations—always keeping the consequence proportional, timely, and aligned with the violation.