Groupthink 2e

This program is also available in French.

People often seek unanimous agreement in spite of facts pointing to another conclusion. The phenomenon is called groupthink. And this absorbing, award-winning video is the most definitive ever on the subject.

How do groups really make decisions? What drives groups to agree despite the better judgment of some or even all participants? Why do group decisions sometimes result in a monumental error? What are the signals to watch for, so the quality of group decisions can be enhanced?

No modern-day thinker better answered these questions than the late Dr. Irving Janis, who introduced the concept of groupthink in the 1970’s. This updated version of Groupthink has been inspired by continuing demand for this important film, and by recognition of the ever-growing need for effective decision-making within groups.

This film is a service to those who seek to improve the future by understanding and enhancing the group decision-making process. It’s a remarkable portrayal of the group dynamics and behaviours that signal the presence of pitfalls to be avoided. The solutions rest in a clear understanding of groupthink symptoms. After seeing how the groupthink phenomenon may have caused the Challenger disaster, your organization’s team processes and consensus-building will be changed forever.

This video uses the story of the space shuttle Challenger and mentions other historical events – the Bay of Pigs invasion, Pearl Harbor and the Cuban Missile Crisis – to explore and help demonstrate the phenomenon of groupthink.

Participants gain an understanding of the eight symptoms of groupthink and strategies for avoiding it.

8 Symptoms Of Groupthink:

• Symptom #1: Illusion of Invulnerability
• Symptom #2: Belief in the Inherent Morality of the Group
• Symptom #3: Rationalization
• Symptom #4: Stereotypes of Out-Groups
• Symptom #5: Self-Censorship
• Symptom #6: Direct Pressure
• Symptom #7: Mindguards
• Symptom #8: Illusion of Unanimity