Final answer:
Groupthink refers to the dysfunction in decision-making within homogeneous groups where the need for consensus and conformity leads to irrational outcomes, hindered opposition, and faulty decisions. Symptoms include a perceived invincibility, self-censorship, and an illusion of unanimity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon where the desire for group cohesion and conformity results in irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcomes. Individuals in the group often suppress dissenting opinions and deviate from their true preferences to align with what they perceive as the group consensus. This behavior can lead to poor decisions as the group may take action collectively that they would not consider as individuals, and it may suppress healthy debate and critical thinking.
Symptoms of Groupthink
- Perceiving the group as invulnerable or correct
- Self-censorship and the quashing of dissent
- An illusion of unanimity within the group
Preventing Groupthink
To combat groupthink, several strategies can be implemented to encourage independent thought and critical analysis within a group setting:
- Seeking outside opinions
- Voting in private
- Leader withholding their opinion until all members have voiced theirs
- Conducting thorough research on all viewpoints
- Assessing the pros and cons of all potential actions
- Developing a contingency plan