Question

please explain a time you fell victim to Groupthink outside of this class. Now that you have learned more about working in groups, going forward how would you avoid making the same decision.

Answer 1

Groupthink is an attitude that forbids rational decision making because perceived necessity of maintaining harmony and consensus in the group might override the rationality and fact based decision making.

One instance of groupthink decision happened when I was a part of purchase team. I was the juniormost member of team and, given the culture of the organisation, was expected to believe that seniors always make wise choices. The item to be purchased was a textile fabric, which I, with my education and experience knew that would not work well for the purpose. I disagreed with the group opinion of purchase once, but when one of the members said that all of them have purchased such items for years, I reluctantly agreed. I could have argued more and cited my subject matter skills which I did not. The purchased item performed badly, and I regretted, as I did not put my point strongly.

If i get to make the same decision again, I will put my point strongy with relevant analysis without being disrespectful, but making sure that my voice is heared and acknowledged.