Importance Of Groupthink In Decision Making

Groupthink is a term used to refer to a theory introduced by a social psychologist Mr. Irving L. Janis in 1972 through observations of small groups performing problem solving tasks. His theory refers to systematic errors and ineffective decisions being made due to group collective decision making. Groupthink arises due to conformity such as group pressure taking place where a stronger body of the group or the leader pressurises on making the decision they may prefer. Group pressures result in a fall of “mental efficiency, reality testing and moral judgement” (Janis, 1982: p.9). This therefore eliminates new opportunities a group could benefit from such as bringing new ideas, knowledge, creativity and expertise in order to get a solution to

There are preventive methods that can help reduce or even eliminate groupthink within groups and therefore can result in effective decisions being made. In order to achieve this, it is vital for the leader to create an environment where each member of the group is trusted and is given a chance to openly share and analyse ideas without fear. The practices a leader can follow in order to eliminate groupthink consist of Appointing a Devil’s Advocate, ensure team size is the right size, Division into subgroups, Leader should not state preference initially, Encouraging diversity.
- Appointing a Devil’s Advocate is a person whose job is to encourage arguments and debates within a group in order to bring out different perspectives from members.
- Encouraging diversity helps bring new and different people in the groups, this in result brings new ideas, new cultures and mind-sets in the group, making it difficult for groupthink to take place. Therefore, increasing group cohesiveness and performance.
- Division into subgroups allows groups to concentrate on different aspects, they then all come together as one group for a discussion. This helps provide a better