What is groupthink?

Groupthink refers to a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group of people when the desire for harmony or conformity leads to irrational or dysfunctional decision-making. In a groupthink scenario, members may suppress dissenting viewpoints, fail to critically analyze alternative ideas, or ignore potential risks in order to maintain consensus and a sense of unity within the group. This often results in suboptimal or flawed decisions because critical thinking and diverse perspectives are sidelined in favor of maintaining group cohesion.

Understanding groupthink is crucial for effective teamwork and decision-making because recognizing its signs can help groups cultivate an environment that encourages open dialogue, constructive criticism, and the exploration of all ideas. By avoiding the pitfalls of groupthink, teams can make more informed and balanced decisions that take into account a wider range of perspectives.