| Group Dynamics: Groupthink Irving Janis |
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| 1. | Occurs only in highly cohesive groups (sense of solidarity). | |
| 2. | The core of groupthink is pressure to strive to agree. It leads to a failure of critical thinking. | |
| 3. | Major symptoms of groupthink | |
| a. | The illusion of invulnerability. | |
| b. | Shared stereotypes--"We" versus "They" feelings. "We" feeling is characteristic of cohesive groups. | |
| c. | Rationalization. | |
| d. | Illusion of morality--results from a failure to express doubts. | |
| e. | Self-censorship--group atmosphere discourages group criticism. | |
| f. | Illusion of unanimity. | |
| g. | Direct pressure applied to deviant member. | |
| h. | Mind-guarding--protection from disturbing ideas. | |
| 4. | Leadership to avoid groupthink in the Cuban Missile Crisis | |
| a. | Kennedy brought in experts from the outside. | |
| b. | Assigned the role of critical evaluation to each member. | |
| c. | Made it clear to all that all alternatives should be considered. | |
| d. | Avoided being a directed leader. He did no attend some meetings. | |