Groupthink
Groupthink Defined
Groupthink = Common Trap
Groupthink is a common decision trap and one of the major causes of flawed decision-making in groups.
When Groupthink Occurs
When Groupthink Occurs
Groupthink occurs when tremendous pressures within the team:
- Demand conformity
- Express a strong desire for unanimity at the expense of true critical thinking
Causes of Groupthink
Causes of Groupthink
Causes of groupthink can stem from:
- Strong personalities or influences that overpower or hinder others from being equal contributors to the group
- Individuals choosing not to speak up in a group so they may be allowed to participate without taking risks or exposing themselves to adverse opinions from others
Groupthink Disadvantage
Groupthink Disadvantage
Whatever the reason for groupthink, it puts the entire group at a disadvantage and should be addressed quickly to get the group back on track toward achieving its purpose for convening.
Symptoms of Groupthink
Groupthink Symptoms
To prevent groupthink, Airmen must be aware of the symptoms. Common indicators of groupthink:
- The group demonstrating a feeling of being invulnerable or egocentric
- A tendency to rationalize away disconfirming data and warning signs of ineffective judgment or critical thinking
- The group concludes topics with a feeling of unanimity regarding particular views
- Individuals are pressured when they present dissenting views
- Group members regress in their desire or ability to contribute to the group
Reducing Groupthink
Reducing Groupthink
If groupthink is present, outside consultation may be required to get the group on the right track.
Minimizing Structural Barriers
Minimize Structural Barriers
In other cases, Airmen can work to:
- Minimize structural barriers to candid dialogue
- Reduce groupthink tendencies within their organization
Two Reduction Methods
Reduction Methods
Some ways to reduce groupthink:
- Defining roles within decision-making teams by giving responsibility to members for aspects of the analysis process and holding them accountable for representing these perspectives within the group
- Inviting healthy disagreement during the analysis process to encourage candid dialogue