Exam 14: Groupthink

Analyze a recent government decision using Groupthink. Identify all the relevant concepts from the theory, and come to a conclusion as to whether Groupthink may have been at work in influencing the outcome. Support your ideas with examples.

Cohesiveness of the group may emerge as a problem because

All of the following are symptoms of Groupthink EXCEPT

An employee who is willing to report unethical corporate practices to other is called a(n)

Identify and explain the three primary categories of Groupthink. Be sure to identify and explain the symptoms associated with each of these categories.

Groups that have a clearly defined plan for the procedures that should be followed in the decision-making process will be more susceptible to Groupthink.

The primary concern related to Groupthink is that the group may arrive at a flawed decision if the desire for unanimity overrides the desire for a thorough consideration of all relevant information.

Do you agree with 't Hart's criticism that Janis's suggestions for avoiding Groupthink "inadvertently erode collegiality and foster group factionalism"? Do you think 't Hart's suggestions are preferable, or do they introduce other unintended negative consequences? Can the two sets of suggestions coexist?

Collective rationalization refers to a group member's tendency to minimize his or her doubts and to refrain from presenting counterarguments.

As the decision whether to launch a new product to prevent tooth decay was being debated, one of the product development specialists commented, "What a great product! We have created something that will help Americans maintain the enamel on their teeth. I don't know why those health critics are accusing us of putting a potentially harmful product out on the market. After all, our goal is to help people, not to hurt them. We're interested in doing what is in the best interest of the public." She has demonstrated which of the following symptoms of groupthink?

Discuss the role of accountability in companies today. Given the numerous ethical problems associated with corporations today, how might Groupthink help inform company leaders?

Group members who shield the group from adverse information are

A group's belief that it is special enough to overcome any obstacles or setbacks is referred to as:

Outside pressures are stressful for a group that is involved in making a decision.

Some scholars have suggested that Groupthink may have been operating when the U.S. made the decision to go to war in Iraq in 2003. Among other arguments, they cite the fact that some government and military leaders predicted that victory in Iraq would be swift because the terrorists/insurgents were not organized or technologically advanced enough to fight U.S. forces successfully. This could be considered an example of

Groups are generally better at solving problems in the long run than individuals because members have access to more information.

When a group is closed-minded, it tries to entertain all options before a final decision is made.

Using our standard criteria for theory evaluation discussed in Chapter 3, evaluate Groupthink.