What is the result of groupthink in a group decision-making context?

In a group decision-making context, groupthink often leads to narrowly considered and frequently poor decisions. This phenomenon occurs when the desire for harmony or conformity within the group results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome. Members may suppress dissenting viewpoints, leading to a lack of critical evaluation of alternative ideas or solutions. Consequently, the group becomes less innovative and does not weigh the potential consequences of their decisions adequately.

Groupthink diminishes the opportunity for thorough discussion and critical assessment, causing the team to overlook important factors or warning signs related to the decision at hand. The pressure to conform can also hinder individual members from voicing their opinions or concerns, which may lead to unanimous agreements that are based more on consensus than on sound reasoning. This collective neglect usually results in choices that do not meet the group's best interests, exemplifying how groupthink can impair effective decision-making.