Features of Groupthink
1. Direct Pressure: Groupthink separates people into two camps, in-groups and out-groups. The in-group agrees on a decision, whereas the out-group questions or disagrees with the decision. The in-group might put pressure on the out-group to adhere to groupthink or risk being labeled as dissenters or disloyal by members.
2. Illusion of Invulnerability: In-group team members become overconfident due to a lack of questioning or other viewpoints, leading to greater risk-taking.
3. Illusion of Unanimity: Members of the group interpret their lack of questioning about their judgements as evidence that everyone in the group agrees with them. The perception of a unified front makes it more difficult for others to express objections.
4. Mindguards: Individual members serve as self-appointed gatekeepers, protecting the group leader and other members from different points of view. They shut away any outside influences that might harm group identity.
5. Rationalising: Groupthink encourages members of a group to disregard any outside information, particularly warnings or critiques. Paying attention to this information may cause people to rethink or reevaluate their opinions.
6. Self-Censorship: Victims of groupthink tend to ignore any thoughts or beliefs that contradict the group. They may even begin to question their own opinions and beliefs.
7. Stereotyping: Out-group members may quarrel with and verbally assault out-group members for holding opposing views. Stereotyping may also include negative preconceptions that portray individuals as stupid, weak-willed, or morally corrupt.
8. Unquestioned Believes: Illusions of invulnerability, along with the in-group’s unshakeable trust in their own moral and ethical reliability, can result in poor decision-making. It also causes members of the organisation to disregard any consequences for their behaviour.