The Effects Of Groupthink

850 Words4 Pages

Groupthink can lead to people making rather irrational decisions due to the belief that a group cannot be wrong (Janis, 1972). History has shown that some decisions made through groupthink have ended up being tragic. 12manage (2009) points out that some of the symptoms of groupthink are illusion of invulnerability, belief in inherent morality of the group, collective rationalization, out-group stereotypes, self-censorship, illusion of unanimity, direct pressure on dissenters, and self appointed mind-guards. This symptoms can be solved through appointing a devil’s advocate; encouraging everyone in the group to be a critical assessor; avoiding stating one’s stance initially as the group leader; setting up independent factions; dividing the group …show more content…

According to Janis (1972), the illusion of invulnerability is the group mentality that a certain decision cannot be wrong. This illusion makes the members of the faction neglect the obvious dangers of their decision due to having excess optimism and confidence in their ability (Janis, 1972). To prevent this symptom, it is important for the group to involve experts who can evaluate the risks of its bad decisions and assist it in making more informed verdicts. 2. According to Janis (1972), the group may be inclined to believe in the morality of their group and make them ignore the moral and ethical consequences of the decisions they make. Encouraging everyone in the group to be a critical thinker is a good way of avoiding this symptom. Janis (1972) points out that in the Bay of Pigs fiasco, several members of the decision making group had contrary ideas, but the president did not encourage the critical thoughts of other …show more content…

According to 12manage (2009), ensuring solidarity and cohesion is more important to a group than the evaluation of facts and options when making decisions. The main characteristics of the factions that fall on the groupthink trap include: high cohesion, isolation from contrary opinions, and presence of an influential leader in the group (12manage, 2009). Some notable negative consequences of groupthink are the lack of consideration of alternatives, overlooking the negative impacts of the preferred decision, the failure to consult experts, the failure to consider unpopular opinions, selectivity in attending to the available information, and the absence of contingency plans (12manage,