Groupthink

Definition

Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when a group of individuals prioritizes consensus and harmony over critical thinking and individual opinions, often leading to poor decision-making. In character relationships, groupthink can significantly impact how characters interact, as it may suppress dissenting views and encourage conformity, ultimately shaping the group dynamics and the development of the plot.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Groupthink can lead to a lack of critical evaluation of alternatives, as members prioritize agreement over diverse perspectives.
2. In stories, characters may succumb to groupthink when faced with strong leadership or high levels of cohesiveness within a group.
3. One of the symptoms of groupthink is the illusion of invulnerability, where members believe that their decisions are inherently correct.
4. Groupthink can result in disastrous outcomes, as seen in historical events where groups failed to consider potential risks due to collective agreement.
5. Authors often use groupthink as a plot device to create tension or conflict, illustrating how characters struggle between personal beliefs and group pressure.

Review Questions

• How does groupthink influence character dynamics within a story?
  • Groupthink significantly shapes character dynamics by promoting conformity and discouraging dissenting opinions. When characters prioritize group harmony over individual perspectives, it can lead to critical mistakes or ethical dilemmas that propel the plot forward. This phenomenon often creates tension among characters who may internally disagree but feel pressured to conform, highlighting the struggle between personal beliefs and social expectations.
• What are some potential negative consequences of groupthink in character relationships?
  • The negative consequences of groupthink in character relationships include poor decision-making and a lack of creativity in problem-solving. When characters suppress their thoughts to maintain harmony, they might overlook vital information or alternative solutions. This could lead to situations where the group's choices result in unintended harm or conflict, thereby advancing the narrative by introducing challenges that characters must face as a result of their collective failure.
• Evaluate the role of leadership in fostering or preventing groupthink among characters in a narrative.
  • Leadership plays a crucial role in either fostering or preventing groupthink within a narrative. A strong leader can inadvertently encourage groupthink by promoting an environment where dissent is discouraged and consensus is prioritized. Conversely, effective leaders recognize the importance of diverse viewpoints and actively seek input from all members. This proactive approach can prevent the pitfalls of groupthink by ensuring that all voices are heard, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making and richer character development.

Related terms

Conformity: The act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms, often resulting from social pressure.

Social Loafing: A tendency for individuals to put in less effort when working in a group than when working alone, which can affect group productivity.

Cohesiveness: The degree to which group members are attracted to each other and motivated to stay in the group, which can both positively and negatively influence decision-making.