Communication Theories: Group Think

Groupthink is an attractive theory by the virtue of its ability to explain irrational decisions made by rational and intelligent groups of individuals. However, the theory does not predict group behavior and merely reexamines past events and applies a rubric of eight “symptoms” that comprise Groupthink. These eight symptoms include illusions of invulnerability, collective rationalization, belief in inherent morality, stereotyped views of out-groups, direct pressure on dissenters, self-censorship, illusion of unanimity, and self-appointed “mind-guards” (McCauley 1998). Illusion of invulnerability occurs when members overestimate their own ability and irrationally believe that everything will work out for the group because it is unique or different. The belief in inherent morality is when members automatically believe their cause is justified, without any proper basis. Collective rationalization occurs when members dismiss any mistakes or challenging views by creating false and often logically flawed explanations. Out-group stereotyping describes the group’s tendency to disregard all opposing ideas and arbitrarily denounce people outside of the group. Self-censorship is responsible for discouraging members from talking about their ideas and findings if the ideas challenge status quo. Illusion of unanimity is reached when members falsely believe that group silence signifies that the group is in agreement. Direct pressure on dissenters is the fear within the group that disagreeing signifies disloyalty. Lastly, self-appointed mind-guards are members who voluntarily prevent the group from discussing controversial topics or ideas.

The eight broad claims cast a wide net and appear plausible and appealing, but in reality, are vague enou...

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...overts “listen more than they talk…express themselves better in writing than through conversation” and “dislike conflict” (Cain 2012). In work and administrative environments, extroverts assume the leadership role and “tackle assignments quickly…making fast (sometimes rash) decisions, and are comfortable with multitasking and risk taking” (Cain 2012). In contrast, introverts “work more slowly and deliberately” and are less likely to participate in a fast paced, active, group discussion (Cain 2012). Groupthink does not account for the kinds of personalities present in a group that has made a poor decision. Within working group environments, extroverts are more likely to dominate discussions and express themselves openly, while introverts are more likely to listen and keep quiet. This is a major contributing factor to group decisions that Groupthink overlooks.