Group theories concepts

Question 1

Groupthink

Answer 1

when a group makes faulty decisions because of group pressures

Question 2

8 causes of groupthink

Answer 2

1. Illusion of invulnerability
2. Collective rationalization
3. Belief in inherent morality
4. Stereotyped views of those “on the out”
5. Direct pressure on dissenters
6. Self-censorship
7. Illusion of unanimity
8. Self-appointed “mindguards”

Question 3

Illusion of invulnerability

Answer 3

creates excessive optimism that encourages taking extreme risks

Question 4

Collective rationalization

Answer 4

members discount warnings and do not reconsider their assumptions

Question 5

Belief in inherent morality

Answer 5

members believe in the rightness of their cause and ignore the ethical or moral consequences of their decisions

Question 6

Stereotyped views of those “on the out”

Answer 6

negative views of the “enemy” make conflict seem

unnecessary

Question 7

Direct pressure on dissenters

Answer 7

members are under pressure not to express arguments against any of the group’s views

Question 8

Self-censorship

Answer 8

doubts and deviations from the perceived group consensus are not expressed

Question 9

Illusion of unanimity

Answer 9

the majority view and judgments are assumed to be unanimous

Question 10

Self-appointed “mindguards”

Answer 10

members protect the group and the leader from information that is problematic or contradictory to the group’s cohesiveness, views, and/or decisions

Question 11

Group polarization

Answer 11

occurs during group decision making when discussion makes a topic more important

Question 12

Contraindications for group

Answer 12

client who is in crisis; suicidal; compulsively needy for attention; actively psychotic; and/or paranoid