What is groupthink?

Groupthink is a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group when the desire for consensus or harmony overrides realistic appraisal of alternative courses of action. This can lead to poor decision-making outcomes because members may suppress dissenting viewpoints, fail to critically analyze ideas, or overlook potential risks in order to maintain group cohesion. The emphasis on agreement can cause individuals to conform to the prevailing opinion, thereby sacrificing innovation and critical evaluation.

In the context of decision-making, groupthink can manifest in various ways, such as discouraging individual responsibility or fostering an atmosphere where questioning or challenging the group's prevailing thoughts is viewed negatively. This lack of healthy debate can ultimately result in decisions that are not only irrational but also detrimental to the group's objectives. Understanding this concept is crucial for managing teams effectively and ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered to improve decision-making processes.