E3: Group decisions and conflict

Question 1

What are a few aspects of groups that lead to instances of poor decision making

Answer 1

-failure to share unique information

-a dominant few within the group

-a leader stating their opinion early on in decision making process

Question 2

process loss

Answer 2

any aspect of group interaction that inhibits good problem solving

Question 3

what are the two main things that cause process loss

Answer 3

group polarization and groupthink

Question 4

group polarization (risky shift)

Answer 4

groups come to a consensus on either extreme rather than landing somewhere in the middle; group decision ends up being more extreme than the initial inclinations of individuals

Question 5

what causes group polarization

Answer 5

1. new info adds on to existing opinions and sways even further in one direction
2. social comparison: in an effort to fit in, people feed off each other’s energy getting more and more extreme
3. personal responsibility is lessened within groups

Question 6

what is groupthink

Answer 6

decision process in which maintaining group cohesiveness/solidarity is more important than considering the facts in a realistic manner

Question 7

symptoms of groupthink

Answer 7

-overestimating the group’s abilities and qualifications

-closed mindedness: group is unwilling to hear other’s opinions

-an intense pressure for the group to come to one clear decision

-a powerful leader

Question 8

what we can do to help groups make better decisions

Answer 8

-emphasize equal participation from group members

-seek outside opinions

-promote diversity in thinking styles and perspectives

Question 9

what causes group conflict

Answer 9

-a real or perceived scarcity of resources

-a difference in values

-incompatible or varying goals

-social dilemma

Question 10

social dilemma as a reason for group conflict

Answer 10

conflict in which what is best for the individual is not always best for the group

Question 11

how can we reduce conflict in groups and increase cooperation

Answer 11

by finding things the group can agree on and work towards

-superordinate goals
-superordinate identity

Question 12

superordinate goals

Answer 12

mutually desirable goals that cannot be achieved by one group alone, necessitating cooperation in order to succeed

Question 13

superordinate identity

Answer 13

overarching group identities that encompass multiple subgroups, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity