What Is Groupthink?

Groupthink is a term coined by Irving Janis in 1972 that describes a psychological phenomenon in which people within a group, especially a close-knit or tightly knit group, tend to come to the same conclusions or conclusions that are similar to each other in order to maintain harmony, even if the conclusions are ill-informed or wrong. Due to this, groupthink can lead to a lack of critical thinking, conformity, and rigid decision-making.

The Effects Of Groupthink

Groupthink can have a major impact on group performance, decision-making, and creativity. It is characterized by the tendency for group members to think jointly and strive for conformity, which can lead to an atmosphere where individual members’ opinions and ideas are ignored, or even suppressed and ridiculed. This can lead to adverse decision-making and other outcomes.

Groupthink can also lead to a false sense of invulnerability in the group, as well as exaggerated overestimations regarding the group’s capabilities. As a result, members may make rash decisions without thoroughly assessing the risks or gathering input from all members of the group. Additionally, groupthink can lead to a sense of “group unanimity” where members may be too quick to agree with one another in order to maintain harmony.

Avoiding Groupthink

In order to avoid or reduce the chances of groupthink, it is important for group members to be aware of the potential of this psychological phenomenon prior to starting any group project or task. Additionally, it is essential that group members recognize their personal biases, as well as the collective biases of the group, to ensure that these are not affecting group decision-making. It is also important for group members to be willing to openly communicate, listen to one another’s ideas, and give others the opportunity to express themselves and challenge the group’s decisions. Lastly, group members should not be afraid to ask questions and be willing to challenge one another to come up with solutions that are well thought out and grounded in reality.

Overall, it is important to be aware of the potential pitfalls of groupthink and be proactive in working together to create a safe environment in which all members feel comfortable expressing themselves and being heard. Doing so can help to prevent the occurrence of this phenomenon and help to ensure that the group’s decisions are based on critical thinking, open communication, and a shared sense of reality.