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A Social Identity Maintenance Model of Groupthink
Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes
|December 16, 1998
Summary
This study introduces a social identity model of groupthink, defining it as a collective effort to preserve a positive group image. It explains when groupthink occurs and how to prevent its negative impact on decisions.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
- Group Dynamics
Background:
- Groupthink is a phenomenon where cohesive groups prioritize consensus over critical evaluation.
- Previous research on groupthink has yielded equivocal empirical findings.
- The social identity of a group may influence decision-making processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a social identity maintenance model of groupthink.
- To define groupthink as a collective attempt to maintain a positive group image.
- To identify conditions conducive to groupthink and suggest mitigation strategies.
Main Methods:
- The study presents a theoretical model.
- It synthesizes existing literature on groupthink and social identity.
- Explanations for equivocal empirical findings are provided.
Main Results:
- Groupthink is conceptualized as a strategy for social identity maintenance.
- Conditions favoring concurrence seeking are outlined.
- The model accounts for inconsistent empirical results in groupthink research.
Conclusions:
- Maintaining a positive group image can lead to groupthink.
- Understanding the social identity basis of groupthink is crucial.
- Intervention tactics can improve group decision outcomes by mitigating groupthink.