Final answer:
A counternormative identity involves a group member challenging common and accepted attitudes or actions within their group, breaking away from groupthink and fostering healthier group dynamics through open criticism and critical thinking.
Step-by-step explanation:
In performing a counternormative identity, a group member criticizes attitudes or actions that are common and accepted among members of that group. Such criticisms often challenge the groupthink mentality, which is a situation where group members modify their opinions to match what they believe is the group consensus. Engaging in counternormative behavior may address the tendency to prioritize group cohesion over critical thinking, a characteristic of groupthink that can lead to subpar decision-making. It also directly confronts the illusion of unanimity among group members and can act against in-group bias, which is a preference for our own group over others. Ultimately, counternormative actions can lead to healthier group dynamics by fostering a more open environment where dissent is allowed, and critical evaluation of norms is encouraged.