Another problem that groups may encounter is groupthink
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Another problem that groups may encounter is groupthink, the uncritical acceptance of decisions.4 Groupthink is most likely to occur when groups value interpersonal relationships more than they value the ability to perform effectively.5 Other factors that contribute to groupthink include a leader’s strong preference for a certain decision and the lack of a clear set of procedures for approaching problems. Groupthink is dangerous because outsiders may assume that a group has deliberated carefully and responsibly when it has not.
To avoid group think, groups need to be aware of its major symptoms.
These include
• Putting pressure on people who argue against what most of the group believe
• Censoring thoughts that differ from group beliefs
• Maintaining an illusion of infallibility (the group can do no wrong)
I Reinforcing an unquestioned belief in the group’s moral rightness
• Attempting to rationalize group decisions
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