What is the main characteristic of groupthink?

The main characteristic of groupthink is indeed the prioritization of harmony over critical thinking in decision-making. This phenomenon often occurs in cohesive groups where the desire for consensus leads members to suppress dissenting viewpoints and critical analysis. As a result, the group may make flawed decisions because they do not thoroughly evaluate alternatives or consider the broader implications of their choices.

In situations characterized by groupthink, individuals may feel pressured to conform to the prevailing group opinion, leading to a lack of creativity and a diminished willingness to engage in constructive debate. This can result in the failure to recognize potential pitfalls or to explore a wider range of solutions to a problem.

Encouraging diverse perspectives and fostering open debates, for instance, are strategies that can work against groupthink and enhance group decision-making by bringing in different viewpoints and encouraging critical analysis, which ultimately leads to better outcomes.