Groupthink

Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group of people, in which the desire for harmony or conformity in the group results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome. Group members try to minimize conflict and reach a consensus decision without critical evaluation of alternative viewpoints, by actively suppressing dissenting viewpoints, and by isolating themselves from outside influences.

Definition

Groupthink is a term first used in 1972 by social psychologist Irving Janis that refers to a psychological phenomenon in which people strive for consensus within a group. In many cases, people will set aside their own personal beliefs or adopt the opinion of the rest of the group.

Causes

Groupthink occurs when a group values harmony and coherence over accurate analysis and critical evaluation. It causes individual members of the group to unquestioningly follow the word of the leader and it strongly discourages any disagreement with the consensus.

Symptoms

Janis has documented eight symptoms of groupthink:

1. Illusion of invulnerability
2. Collective rationalization
3. Belief in inherent morality
4. Stereotyped views of out-groups
5. Direct pressure on dissenters
6. Self-censorship
7. Illusion of unanimity
8. Self-appointed ‘mindguards’

Prevention

Methods to prevent groupthink include encouraging feedback and criticism, and placing responsibility and the authority to make decisions on each member in the group. Leaders should also encourage group members to discuss possible solutions with trusted people outside of the group.

Examples

Historical examples of groupthink can be found in numerous disaster situations such as the Challenger explosion, Bay of Pigs invasion, and the escalation of the Vietnam War.

See also

• Abilene paradox
• Bandwagon effect
• Cognitive dissonance
• Conformity
• Cults
• Peer pressure
• Pluralistic ignorance