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.
What Is Groupthink? (Plain Language Explanation)
Groupthink refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Groupthink
- Symptoms: The specific ways groupthink shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen groupthink
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When groupthink occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Groupthink
- Groupthink is far more common than most people realize
- Groupthink is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with groupthink see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about groupthink is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing groupthink, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.