Groupthink is a phenomenon that occurs when a group of well-intentioned people makes irrational or non-optimal decisions spurred by the urge to conform or the belief that dissent is impossible. The problematic or premature consensus that is characteristic of groupthink may be fueled by a particular agenda—or it may be due to group members valuing harmony and coherence above critical thought.
Enviable individuals acquire skills and knowledge effortlessly; others are more orderly and achievement-focused than their peers, and still others exhibit unusual talents. While such positive traits are not evenly distributed, they are not necessarily out of reach for those who are not "natural" high achievers. A growth mindset , as conceived by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck and colleagues, is
The Link Between Groupthink and Growth Mindset
Groupthink and Growth Mindset are deeply interconnected psychological phenomena. Research shows that these two conditions frequently co-occur, with each often triggering or amplifying the other.
When someone experiences groupthink, it can create conditions that make growth mindset more likely. Conversely, managing one can significantly improve outcomes for the other.
How Groupthink Affects Growth Mindset
The presence of groupthink can impact growth mindset in several important ways:
- Heightened nervous system activation from groupthink can intensify growth mindset symptoms
- Both share common underlying mechanisms in the brain's stress response systems
- Addressing groupthink often leads to measurable improvements in growth mindset
- The combination can create self-reinforcing cycles that require integrated treatment
Practical Strategies When Dealing with Both
When groupthink and growth mindset occur together, a combined approach is most effective:
- Seek professional assessment — get an accurate picture of how each affects you
- Address underlying causes — identify shared root causes (sleep, stress, trauma)
- Use evidence-based interventions — CBT, mindfulness, and behavioral approaches work for both
- Build support networks — social connection buffers both conditions
- Track patterns — use journaling to see how they interact in your life