Episode 7

This episode began with the merging of both tribes and a celebratory meal for all players. Although all were excited to be lasting so far in the game, alliances were becoming apparent – especially between the couples and singles. As they all become one group and compete against each other, people are scrambling to strategize in order to decide who they will vote out for tribal council. The show, in itself, is centered on decision-making focused on voting people out one by one. This is determined through majority rule at tribal council. However, many of the individuals exhibit certain decision-making styles for them to settle on who they personally want to vote out.

It is apparent that the couples – Jon and Jaclyn, Josh and Reed, Wes and Keith, and Missy and Baylor – have some sort of dependence on each other. This, however, is not a negative trait. Because they each have some sort of relationship towards each other, it is obvious that each couple would work together as a team.

There are also examples of intuitive decision-making styles. Missy and Baylor allow their feelings and emotions to get ahead of them and guide how they vote. They initially targeted Dale, as they saw him as a rude and bossy.

Julie is also a mix between the intuitive and spontaneous styles. For example, after she attempts to hide leftover trail mix from everyone, her peers give her the cold shoulder for lying to everyone. She allows her personal feelings to get the best of her as she feels that no one particularly likes her anymore. This, along with her missing her boyfriend who had been voted out, makes her impulsively and voluntarily leave the game.

In my opinion, Jeremy and Josh are the most logical players. They continuously keep in mind that this is a game and they must create alliances with enough people in order to sway the votes. There is a power imbalance between the two of them as they vie for power and control of the majority vote.

Like problem solving realities, the show also has some aspect of politics. Everyone has a hidden agenda to try and stay in the game. People lie and blindside each other to ensure that the outcome they want occurs.