What is "groupthink" in the context of decision-making?

Groupthink refers to a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group when the desire for harmony and consensus leads to dysfunctional decision-making outcomes. In this context, the priority placed on achieving agreement can overshadow the critical analysis necessary for evaluating alternatives and considering various viewpoints.

When group members feel pressured to conform to the group's prevailing attitudes or decisions, they may suppress dissenting opinions or fail to adequately evaluate potential risks associated with their choices. This can result in less thorough discussions and ultimately lead to poor decisions. Understanding groupthink is crucial for fostering an environment where critical thinking is encouraged, diverse opinions are valued, and effective problem-solving can take place, reducing the likelihood of making decisions based solely on a singular consensus.