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What is groupthink?

PsychologyLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

Groupthink is when a group values harmony and agreement so much that it makes poor decisions. Members suppress doubts, ignore alternatives, and go along with the consensus — even when it's clearly flawed — to avoid conflict. Groups prioritize agreement over critical thinking.

Key things to understand

  1. Groups prioritize agreement over critical thinking.
  2. Members self-censor doubts to keep harmony.
  3. Alternatives and risks get ignored.
  4. It can lead to bad or even disastrous decisions.

People also ask

What is groupthink?
When a group's desire for harmony overrides realistic appraisal, leading to poor decisions.
What causes groupthink?
Pressure to conform, strong leaders, isolation from outside views, and a desire to avoid conflict.
How can you prevent groupthink?
Encourage dissent, invite outside opinions, assign a 'devil's advocate', and allow anonymous feedback.