Methods for Counteracting Groupthink Risk

Abstract

This paper examines methods for counteracting groupthink defined as the extreme concurrence seeking exhibited by decision making groups, typically under conditions of high threat and cohesion (Janis, 1982). The authors identify three major categories of interventions potentially capable of mitigating groupthink tendencies: a) traditional recommendations originally hypothesized by Janis, b) methods for enhancing intellectual conflict during the decision making phase, and c) procedures designed to minimize pressures for the activation of group social identity defenses. The authors critically review the limited research empirically examining these recommendations, identify both advantages and disadvantages associated with implementing these interventions, and discuss conditions under which they are likely to be effective and ineffective.