Groupthink is a phenomenon wherein people seek unanimous agreement in spite of contrary facts pointing to another conclusion.
December 7, 1941
The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor kills more than 2,300 Americans.
April 17, 1961
1,300 members of a CIA-supported force storms the beaches of Cuba.
January 28, 1986
The Challenger explosion claims the lives of all seven members of its crew.
CRM Learning's film, GROUPTHINK, is a riveting look at the events and group decision-making that led up to the Challenger disaster. Dr. Irving Janis, a forefather in the study of group dynamics, explains the fundamental concepts of groupthink. Then, the video analyzes the historic meetings that proceeded the Challenger launch.
When team members' desire for agreement overrides their ability to evaluate alternative
courses of action, they no longer see how a unanimous decision can actually threaten
their goals. The groupthink phenomenon has contributed to countless disasters, including
those depicted above, but its warning signs are easily recognizable and it can be
prevented.
Prevent Groupthink:
View Trailer or Full Length Preview or call: 1-800-421-0833
is an excellent film about the human problems involved in decision making. It lays bare our common need for reinforcement while it also illustrates an equal need to hear the prophetic voice.?
-Ralph Chandler, Ph.D.,
Professor, Western Michigan
University
Eight warning signs of groupthink:
- The illusion of invulnerability
- Belief in the inherent group morality
- Rationalization of group views
- Stereotyping of out-groups
- Self-censorship
- Direct pressure on dissenters
- Self-appointed mindguards
- The illusion of unanimity
Four key preventative strategies:
- Establish an open climate
- Avoid the isolation of the group
- Assign the role of critical evaluator
- Avoid being too directive