Groupthink Definition

Groupthink is a term first coined by social psychologist Irving Janis in 1972. It occurs when a group of people make decisions without critically evaluating the information or options before them. Groupthink can lead to poor decision-making and even disastrous consequences.

Janis identified several factors that contribute to groupthink, including:

-A group leader who is overconfident and unwilling to consider dissenting opinions

-A group that is isolationist and reluctant to seek outside input

-A group that places a high value on conformity and consensus over critical thinking and debate

-A group member who feels pressured to go along with the majority opinion

There are steps that leaders can take to prevent groupthink, such as encouraging debate and dissenting opinions, looking at the issue from multiple perspectives, and making sure all voices are heard.