What does the term "groupthink" refer to?

"Groupthink" refers to a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group of people when the desire for harmony or conformity results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome. In this context, pressure for conformity within a group can lead members to suppress dissenting viewpoints, prioritize consensus over critical analysis, and overlook alternative courses of action.

When individuals feel compelled to align their opinions with the group, they're less likely to voice concerns or challenge prevailing assumptions, which can lead to suboptimal decisions. This phenomenon often occurs in cohesive groups that prioritize maintaining relationships or avoiding conflict, rather than engaging in critical thinking or exploring diverse perspectives.

The other options, while related to group dynamics, do not capture the essence of what "groupthink" specifically entails. For instance, a collective decision-making strategy may involve deliberation and debate, which contrasts with the suppressive nature of groupthink. Creative brainstorming typically encourages varied input and divergent thinking, directly opposing the conformity aspect. Similarly, a method for improving group dynamics suggests proactive measures to enhance group functioning rather than the negative consequences associated with groupthink, where conformity diminishes the quality of group decision-making.