Groupthink

GROUPTHINK is a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group of people in which the desire for harmony or conformity in the group results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome. The concept was first extensively researched by IRVING-JANIS in 1972. According to his research, members of a cohesive group try to minimize conflict and reach a consensus without critical evaluation of alternative viewpoints by actively suppressing dissenting ideas and by isolating themselves from outside influences.

Janis identified several symptoms of GROUPTHINK, including an illusion of invulnerability, collective rationalization, and a belief in the inherent morality of the group. These factors can lead to disastrous outcomes in high-stakes environments, such as the BAY-OF-PIGS-INVASION or the CHALLENGER-DISASTER. More information on the psychological mechanisms involved can be found through the American Psychological Association and Britannica.

To mitigate the risks associated with SOCIAL-PSYCHOLOGY biases like this, organizations often implement strategies to encourage CRITICAL-THINKING and assign a "devil's advocate" to challenge the majority opinion. Understanding COGNITIVE-BIAS and its role in TEAM-DYNAMICS is essential for effective leadership and organizational health.

• SOCIAL-PSYCHOLOGY
• COGNITIVE-BIAS
• CONFORMITY
• DECISION-MAKING