1.) Encouraging discussion
Leaders should not set preferences and "rules" when establishing an agenda. This allows each member to feel a part of the group and encourages them to state their opinions. Discussion is the best way to create conflict which can lead to better decision-making.
2.) Divide into subgroups
Dividing into subgroups would encourage debate within the group and allow more passive opinions to be heard. Also, once each subgroup reaches a decision, it makes for a great discussion for the group as a whole to therefore find the best possible outcome.
3.) Welcome outsiders
Encourage outside members to voice their opinions and attend meetings. Outside members looking in for the first time may offer views that have previously ignored.
4.) "Second Chance Meeting"
This is a meeting after the initial decision has been made where group members and outside members can attend to ask questions on issues they doubt. To ensure that everyone is comfortable with the final decision.
5.) Appoint a "Devil's Advocate"
When groupthink is apparent, it is critical for someone to play "devil's advocate" to fuel discussion. Their job would be to voice a rival opinion to the mainstream thoughts to find an "outside the box" solution.
So if you find your self making decisions with the groupthink model, just remember our easy tips to eliminate this negative process from your organizaton or group. You too can find the best possible solutions to any problem, including groupthink!
Works Cited
Mann, Carl P. "How to Remove Groupthink from Executive Decision-Making." Public Relations Quarterly 31.3 (1986): 28. Communication & Mass Media Complete. EBSCO. Web. 19 Mar. 2010.
Media:
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I'm really glad you guys hit on groupthink. I know I've been there and while it initially seems all well and good having unanimous agreement on items, but it really limits the group's possibilities. The idea of a group is to incorporate a number of different ideas to form a more precise solution to the problem at hand. By practicing different techniques to combat groupthink, a group is able to spark diverse thoughts and in turn approach group work from a number of angles rather than the single sliver of thought known as groupthink.
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ReplyDeleteThis was a very to the point post that deals an issue that can creep up in small groups. Those who are not familiar with small groups and small group communication could really benefit from reading this. Group think can plaque groups and can lead to dangerous situations, take for example groupthink amongst a Jury in a criminal case, the outcome could be detrimental either way. This blog is broken in to easy to read, eye catching sections with great visual aids. The visual aids could capture someone's attention quickly to read further. Nice job! Are there times or situations that group think might be beneficial or necessary for the group?
ReplyDeleteI think that this was a good post on groupthink. I liked that it was put in the tips format because it made it easier to learn and understand. There can be a lot to remember when it comes to groupthink but the way it was presented made it easier to help remember. Good job.
ReplyDeleteI liked the approach of removing groupthink for more ideas and possibilities. You also hit an area I was a little surprised to be listed, devil's advocate. It's a neat way to take the discussion and flip it around, in hopes of bringing more ideas to light. Good work!
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