Question

492. Which of the following examples best illustrates a way to avoid groupthink

from occurring?
(A) Choose a group captain to make all the fi nal decisions.
(B) Allow the group's members the freedom to express diff ering opinions.
(C) Have every group member come in with a specifi c idea to bring to the
table.
(D) Only allow one person in the group to speak at a time.
(E) Make the group socially oriented before making any fi nal decisions.

Answer 1

The best way to avoid groupthink is to b. allow the group's members the freedom to express differing opinions, which fosters open dialogue and decreases the likelihood of unchallenged consensus. Other strategies include leadership withholding opinions initially, encouraging outside critiques, and critically weighing all options.

Step-by-step explanation:

How to Avoid Groupthink

Groupthink is a phenomenon where the desire for group consensus overrides people's common sense desire to present alternatives, critique a position, or express an unpopular opinion. The question asks which example best illustrates a way to avoid groupthink.

The correct answer to this question is: (B) Allow the group's members the freedom to express differing opinions. This approach encourages open dialogue and critical thinking, reducing the risk of groupthink. It aligns with strategies to improve group decision-making, such as having leaders withhold their opinions until all members have spoken and weighing the pros and cons of all options objectively.

To further mitigate groupthink, it's beneficial to invite critique from those outside the group, especially opinions that challenge the majority's viewpoint. This can prevent the group from becoming isolated and overly confident in its decisions.

Groupthink can lead to a lack of creativity, and errors in decision-making and should be actively avoided in group settings to ensure diverse perspectives are considered, leading to more effective and balanced outcomes.