What does the concept of 'groupthink' refer to?

The concept of 'groupthink' refers to a psychological phenomenon in which the desire for harmony and conformity within a group results in irrational or dysfunctional decision-making. When members prioritize consensus and the avoidance of conflict over critical thinking and independent viewpoints, the group may overlook alternative ideas or fail to consider the potential consequences of their actions.

This tendency can lead to poor outcomes, as individuals within the group may suppress their own opinions, leading to a lack of dissent and an incomplete analysis of the situation at hand. The phenomenon highlights the importance of encouraging open dialogue and welcoming diverse perspectives within groups to promote better decision-making processes.