Topic: DQ WEEK 4 /two
What is groupthink?
Groupthink is defined as a mode of thinking that most people often engage in when they are deeply engaged in a cohesive in-group, when the motivation to realistically make an appraisal of alternative courses of action are overridden by the striving for unanimity from the members (Jex & Britt, 2008). As such the high levels of group cohesion makes groups to ultimately make wrong decisions because they usually consider less information and fewer alternatives. The impact of groupthink on the decision-making process is determined by such factors as group cohesiveness/harmony, structural deficiencies, as well as situational context.
How can a group avoid groupthink?
Groupthink can be avoided by embracing diversity in the group itself. This can be achieved through inviting other people from different departments who are known to possess divergent viewpoints. However, these ought to be people whom the decisions of the group have a direct effect on.
Secondly, groupthink can be discouraged from the very start by the initiator or boss or leader of the group. He/she should set the tone for divergent opinions/viewpoints (Schermerhorn, 2010). This will make the contributors or participants to feel free in expressing their diverging takes as opposed to stating what the leader or group favors. Similarly, conflicts must be viewed as healthy if groupthink is to be avoided.
Furthermore, implementing decisions that have been arrived at in a haste should be stayed to allow all the involved parties adequate time to think them over. This allows chance for second opinion and time for extra research or data gathering on the subject.
Finally, it would also help if one sought opinions of others around prior to making a final decision. In doing this one must be open-minded so as to appreciate the input and suggestions of the consulted people after informing them of the whats and whys of their subject (Jex & Britt, 2008).
References:
Jex, M. Steve, & Britt, W. Thomas. (2008). Organizational psychology: a scientist-practitioner approach. New Jersey, John Wiley & Sons.
Schermerhorn, R. John. (2010). Management. New Jersey, John Wiley & Sons.
