Groupthink

Definition

Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon where the desire for harmony and conformity in a group results in irrational or dysfunctional decision-making. This occurs when group members suppress dissenting viewpoints, fail to critically analyze alternatives, and prioritize consensus over the quality of the decision. Groupthink often leads to poor outcomes because the group does not consider all available information or perspectives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Groupthink is characterized by a lack of critical thinking and an illusion of unanimity among group members, leading to suboptimal decisions.
2. Symptoms of groupthink include self-censorship, pressure on dissenters, and a belief that the group's decisions are inherently correct.
3. Groupthink can occur in various settings, including corporate environments, government organizations, and social groups.
4. To combat groupthink, techniques like encouraging open discussion, appointing a devil's advocate, and seeking external opinions can be effective.
5. Historical examples of groupthink include the Bay of Pigs invasion and the Challenger Space Shuttle disaster, where poor decisions were made due to a failure to consider alternative views.

Review Questions

• How does groupthink impact the quality of decision-making within a group?
  • Groupthink negatively impacts decision-making by creating an environment where dissenting opinions are discouraged. This can lead to a lack of critical evaluation of options, as members may prioritize maintaining harmony over thorough discussion. Consequently, important information and diverse viewpoints may be overlooked, resulting in decisions that are poorly informed and potentially harmful.
• What are some common symptoms of groupthink, and how can they be identified within a team setting?
  • Common symptoms of groupthink include self-censorship among members, pressure on individuals to conform to the group's views, and an overestimation of the group's capabilities. These symptoms can be identified when team discussions lack diverse input or when members appear hesitant to voice concerns. Recognizing these signs early on can help address issues before they lead to flawed decisions.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of groupthink on organizational performance and culture.
  • The long-term implications of groupthink can be detrimental to organizational performance and culture. When groups consistently make decisions based on consensus rather than critical analysis, it can lead to a culture of complacency where innovation is stifled and risks are ignored. Over time, this can result in poor performance outcomes, diminished competitive advantage, and decreased morale among employees who may feel their contributions are undervalued or ignored.

Related terms

Conformity: The act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms, which can lead individuals to suppress their own opinions in favor of consensus.

Decision-Making: The cognitive process of selecting a course of action from among multiple alternatives, which can be negatively impacted by groupthink.

Cohesiveness: The degree to which group members are attracted to one another and motivated to stay in the group, which can enhance groupthink when high.