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What is Groupthink?
Groupthink represents a psychological phenomenon in which a group of people makes poor or irrational decisions due to a desire for conformity, harmony, or cohesion. It often leads to suppressed dissent, overlooked risks, and flawed strategic choices.
Definition
Groupthink is a decision-making bias where group pressure for agreement overrides individuals’ willingness to present alternative ideas or critique the majority view.
Key Takeaways
- Groupthink leads to consensus without critical evaluation.
- It suppresses dissenting opinions and reduces decision quality.
- Common in highly cohesive teams, leadership-dominated groups, or high-pressure environments.
Understanding Groupthink
Groupthink can undermine strategic planning, risk assessment, and innovation. When members value unity over correctness, they may ignore warning signs, overestimate the group’s abilities, or assume unanimity where none exists.
Classic symptoms include:
- Illusion of invulnerability
- Collective rationalization
- Pressure on dissenters
- Belief in inherent group morality
- Stereotyping outside perspectives
In business, groupthink can lead to failed projects, poor investments, or misguided strategies. Encouraging diverse opinions, psychological safety, and structured decision-making processes helps reduce the risk.
Formula (If Applicable)
Groupthink has no formula. It is assessed through behavioral indicators and decision-analysis frameworks.
Real-World Example
The 1986 Challenger Space Shuttle disaster is often cited as an example of groupthink, where engineers’ concerns were overlooked due to management pressure and a desire to maintain schedules.
Importance in Business or Economics
- Promotes critical thinking when avoided properly.
- Reduces strategic blind spots.
- Enhances innovation and decision quality.
- Essential for leadership, governance, and team performance.
Types or Variations
- Cohesion-Based Groupthink: Driven by a desire for harmony.
- Authority-Based Groupthink: Stemming from dominant leadership.
- Time-Pressure Groupthink: Occurs when rushed deadlines suppress debate.
Related Terms
- Cognitive Bias
- Decision-Making Models
- Organizational Psychology
Sources and Further Reading
Quick Reference
- Cause: Pressure for agreement.
- Risk: Poor decisions and overlooked dangers.
- Solution: Encourage dissent and structured debate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What causes groupthink?
High cohesion, strong leadership pressure, and time constraints.
How can organizations prevent groupthink?
By promoting open discussion, assigning devil’s advocates, and ensuring diverse perspectives.
Is groupthink always harmful?
Mostly yes; it reduces creativity and decision quality.
