Final answer:
Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when maintaining group harmony and cohesion becomes more important than making sound decisions. It often results in poor decision-making due to suppressed dissent and critical thinking. Strategies to mitigate groupthink include open dialogue and respecting differing opinions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phenomenon you are referring to in the question is known as groupthink. It occurs when a group values harmony and coherence over accurate analysis and critical evaluation of decisions. This social dynamic leads to situations where the desire for group consensus supersedes the motivation to present alternatives, critique a position, or express an unpopular opinion. The result is the potential for a group to make inefficient or poor decisions because critical thinking is sidelined in favor of unanimity, even if that unity is only perceived and not actual.
Groupthink can manifest in various ways. Members might self-censor, applying pressure on themselves not to disrupt the apparent harmony or be perceived as a dissenter. Groups that fall into groupthink may overlook alternatives, not consider less popular opinions, or fail to properly analyze the situation due to their desire to maintain the status quo or avoid conflict. This dynamic can lead to decision-making errors, especially if members exert less effort because they feel their individual contribution is not identifiable—a concept akin to social loafing, where a person's performance declines because their efforts are part of a group and therefore less accountable.
There are strategies to combat groupthink, such as encouraging open dialogue, fostering an environment where dissent is respected, and having leaders who refrain from expressing a strong opinion at the outset of discussions.