What phenomenon is described when group conformity leads to irrational decision-making?

• A. Social facilitation
• B. Groupthink
• C. Group polarization
• D. Social loafing

Answer: (B)

The phenomenon being described is groupthink, which refers to a situation where the desire for harmony or conformity within a group results in irrational or dysfunctional decision-making. In this scenario, members may suppress dissenting viewpoints, fail to critically analyze alternatives, and prioritize consensus over the exploration of diverse ideas. This often leads to poor decisions because the group prioritizes cohesiveness and agreement over a thorough evaluation of the situation.

Groupthink can manifest in various contexts, but it is particularly notable in decision-making groups, such as corporate boards or political committees, where members might avoid bringing up any concerns or objections to maintain the illusion of unanimity. As a result, the group can overlook critical evidence, fail to consider the potential downsides of a decision, or ignore reasonable alternatives, leading to outcomes that may not be in the best interest of the collective.

In contrast, social facilitation, group polarization, and social loafing refer to different group dynamics. Social facilitation deals with the improved performance of individuals when they are in the presence of others. Group polarization refers to the tendency for group discussions to enhance the group's initial leanings, leading to more extreme decisions. Social loafing describes a decrease in individual effort when working as part of a group compared to when working alone